Democracy Thrives On Active Citizenship, Women’s Inclusion — CSO

A Civil society organisation (CSO), Gatefield, has advocated greater political inclusion, active citizenship and institutional reforms as critical ingredients for strengthening Nigeria’s democracy and accelerating national development.

The organisation stated this during Caustival 2026, an art and film festival held in Abuja to promote social justice, democratic values and civic engagement through creative expression and public dialogue.

During a panel session on women’s representation in public leadership and political office, the director of the Legislative Mentorship Initiative, Sholakpe Shonuga, stressed the need to remove barriers that continue to hinder women’s participation in politics and governance.

According to her, increased engagement with political parties, stronger civic participation and deliberate policy reforms are necessary to create opportunities for more women to occupy leadership positions.

Shonuga also endorsed the proposed Reserved Seats Bill, describing it as a significant step towards addressing the underrepresentation of women in Nigeria’s political landscape.

“The Reserved Seats Bill is a pivotal step toward improving women’s representation in Nigeria. The bill proposes 74 additional seats for women in the National Assembly. These are not seats being taken from anyone but additional opportunities designed to encourage greater inclusion,” she said.

She explained that the bill contains a 16-year sunset clause, after which the reserved seats would lapse, with the expectation that women would have established a stronger presence in elective politics.

While calling on the National Assembly to expedite action on the legislation, Shonuga argued that increased female representation would contribute positively to governance and national development.

“Women’s political participation is integral to national development. When women are represented in decision-making spaces, society as a whole benefits,” she stated.

Also at the event, the creative director and curator of Caustival 2026, Faith Dagbue, said the festival’s theme, ‘We Decide’, was inspired by the need to revive civic consciousness and encourage citizens to take ownership of Nigeria’s democratic future.

She noted that many Nigerians have become disillusioned by governance challenges and unfulfilled political promises, making it imperative to rekindle public participation and hope.

“Every election cycle comes with expectations, yet many people have grown weary. This festival is about reminding citizens that positive change requires collective effort and active participation,” Dagbue said.

According to her, the exhibition featured more than 22 artworks by 16 artists and a graphic designer, all exploring themes of democracy, governance, citizenship and national development.