Some leaders of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) have reiterated the need for increased women inclusion in politics to advance their cause and deepen Nigeria’s democracy.
They particularly called for the passage of the proposed legislations before the National Assembly, seeking the reservation of seats for women in the legislature.
The CSO leaders spoke at the weekend in Abuja at the unveiling of a Non-Government Organisation (NGO), the Inclusive Pathway Development Initiative (IPADEV).
The NGO has the vision of promoting an inclusive society where every individual, regardless of gender, background, or status has equal opportunities to thrive and contribute to sustainable development.
Speaking at the launch of IPADEV, which coincided with the 50th birthday of the founder and the executive director, Dr Margaret Fagboyo, a former country director of ActionAid Nigeria, Ene Obi said the civic space was awash with demands for women inclusivity.
Obi noted that Nigeria is running a male-dominated parliament, and the coming onboard of Fagboyo’ IPADEV will further amplify the advocacy for the passage of women’s legislative seat reservations bills.
“We are talking about inclusivity of women because what we have is male parliament in Nigeria and she has been through some of the roads. For her to be 50 and having gone through such a wonderful career and rededicating herself to the service of humanity, this is the time to come because we have more than half of Nigerians living below the poverty line.
“The special seats bill is to bring in about 74 women; we are asking that one seat is reserved in every state for women to compete as is done in other climes because what we have, so about 37 extra senators to come on board so that we can have more meaning. In 14 states there are no women at all in the House of Assembly and you have committees of women that are being chaired and manned and membered by men,” she said.
On her part, Fagboyo said she decided to found the NGO as a means to give back to society positively, adding that a life without service is a life in pain and expressed gratitude to God for sustaining her thus far.
She also appealed to the National Assembly to pass the gender inclusive bill so that women can have their space, be included, and can occupy positions that are meant for them.
Also speaking, founding executive director of the Centre for Leadership, Strategy and Development, Dr Otive Igbuzor urged Fagboyo to champion
gender equality and women empowerment, social justice, human rights as well as community development.
