Under international standard, both men and women should have equal right and opportunities to everything especially to participate fully in all leadership space, in line with Global trend. Nigerian women constitute half of the country’s population but despite the major role they play with their population, they are yet to be given the needed recognition in the society this is due to some cultural stereotype, abuse of religion and traditional practices and patriarchal societal structures. In Nigeria, 51% of women are involved in voting during election despite this fact, Nigerian women are still under represented in both elective and appointive position this is a growing concern to many Nigerians. However, concerted effort has been made by government and nongovernmental organization such as women empowerment education and peace building initiative (WEPBI) to increase the level of participation of women in politics. In line with declaration made at the fourth world conference on women in Beijing which advocates for 30% affirmative action, in Nigeria however, the extent national gender policy (NGP) recommends 35% affirmative action instead and sought for a more inclusive representation of women with at least 35% of both elective political and appointive public services, this will go a long way to encourage women to take part and play active role in political activities which will ensure that women are better represented and their concerns and expectations are well taken care of.
This is what we advocate for at WEPBI an equitable society in which women are competent and great leaders, we also encourage Nigerian government to take cognizance of the fact that women play a major role in the society and also have great potentials in contributing to the development of a nation, and give them the support and opportunity that they need to unleash their full potential with regard to active involvement and inclusion in political activities in the country.
By Asuke Chidiogo