The Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission (FCC), Hulayat Omidiran, has called for a stronger commitment to gender balancing and inclusive governance as essential drivers of national unity, sustainable development, and democratic stability.

She explained that gender balancing requires intentional and equitable representation of women and men in leadership, governance, economic participation and social engagement.

Omidiran made the call while delivering a keynote address at the high-level side event titled Global Women Partnership Without Borders during the 70th session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW70) in New York on Thursday morning.

The event, organised by the Betneely Charity Foundation, brought together policymakers, civil society leaders, and global stakeholders to discuss strategies for promoting gender equality and international cooperation.

Speaking at the event held at Nigeria House in the United States, the FCC chairman stressed that national unity cannot thrive in environments where exclusion persists, emphasising that inclusive governance remains fundamental to building resilient societies.

She said, “Nationhood is more than just a geographical boundary; it is a shared bond of belonging. However, unity cannot thrive where exclusion remains. A nation divided by inequality cannot fully harness its strengths.

“Gender balancing and inclusivity are not peripheral conversations; they are central to sustainable development and enduring peace. When leadership reflects the diversity of its people, trust deepens, and democratic participation grows.”

According to her, inclusive leadership structures enable broader perspectives, richer dialogue, and more effective policy outcomes, particularly when addressing complex national challenges.

She added, “Exclusion breeds resentment, while inclusion fosters belonging. When citizens feel valued, they become stakeholders in national peace and progress rather than spectators of governance.

“Our vision is clear: a Nigeria where opportunity is not determined by bias but by merit; where diversity is harmonised into unity; and where governance reflects justice.”

Speaking on the FCC’s mandate, she reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to promoting fairness, equity, and balanced representation in Nigeria’s public institutions.

Omidiran further emphasised that gender-balanced societies unlock their full human capital potential by empowering women and marginalised groups to contribute meaningfully to economic and social development.

In a statement by the FCC spokesperson, Ademola Lawrence, Omidiran urged leaders and institutions around the world to prioritise policies that promote equality and inclusive participation.

“National unity is not accidental; it is constructed through policies that dignify every citizen and systems that promote equitable participation. When every voice matters, the nation prospers. When every citizen belongs, the nation unites,” she said.

The event also featured participation from notable Nigerian leaders, including former Minister of Women Affairs, Pauline Tallen, while the current Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, attended as a special guest.