As part of plans to influence policies that will increase women’s representation in governance, women organizations have called for improved ratio saying “we want more women as leaders and decision-makers in governance and public affairs.”
Making this known at the Women Consultative Meeting in Abuja and organized by the Maryam Babangida National Centre for Women Development (MBNCWD) and UN Women Resource Centre for Women in Governance and Engage Diaspora Foundation, the President of Women in Governance (WiG), Mrs. Opeyemi Aisha Oni said “we believe that when women lead, societies flourish. When women are part of governance, policies become more inclusive, and when women’s voices are amplified, democracy thrives”.
The meeting according to her, is a call to action, a platform for collaboration, and a significant step towards advancing the role of women in decision-making at all levels.
According to her “women must have a seat at the table—not just as participants, but as leaders and decision-makers in governance and public affairs. We want to empower, equip, and elevate women to take active roles in political, economic, and institutional leadership.”
She further disclosed that some of the WiG’s core focus areas include: Leadership Development & Capacity Building – Providing training, mentorship, and skills enhancement for women in governance. Policy Advocacy and Legislative Engagement – Driving reforms that support gender equality in governance and political representation.
Others are Networking and Collaboration – Building alliances with government agencies, civil society, and international partners to strengthen women’s voices in governance.
Furthermore, while speaking on the objectives of the meeting, she said “we are assessing the current landscape – to evaluate the progress and challenges women face in governance and leadership roles.
“To discuss strategies for influencing policies that will increase women’s representation in governance and to enhance collaboration”.
At the end, she said there will be a Developed Action plan that will outline a roadmap with concrete steps for increasing women’s participation in decision-making at all levels.
Furthermore, she said, the journey towards gender-inclusive governance is a shared responsibility. It requires the collective efforts of policymakers, organizations, communities, and individuals.
“We must stand together, speak up, and act decisively to ensure that women are not just present in governance, but that they lead, influence, and shape the future.
“I urge us all to think boldly, collaborate meaningfully, and commit to actionable outcomes. Together, we can build a more inclusive, equitable, and progressive society where women’s voices are heard, respected, and valued.
In her remarks, the Director General, MBNCWD, Dr. Asabe Vilita Bashir said the Centre aims to foster a collaborative environment that promotes synergy and innovation, ultimately leading to more effective strategies for advancing women’s participation in governance.
According to her “as we embark on a new collaboration with Engage Diaspora Foundation on the “Women in Governance” project, this marks an important milestone in our efforts to advance women’s participation in governance and decision making.
She further commended the contributions of partners including the Canadian Government, UN Women, Women in Politics Forum, 100 Women Lobby Group, Nigerian Women League of Voters for their pursuit to increase Women in Governance and Decision Making in Nigeria.
Accordingly, she said “our unwavering support and commitment have been instrumental in driving progress and creating opportunities for women in politics.”
