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

Civil society organisation, Gatefield has called for stronger political inclusion, active citizenship and institutional reforms, saying they are essential for deepening democracy and accelerating national development in Nigeria.

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

Speaking during a panel session focused on women’s representation in public leadership and political office, the Director of the Legislative Mentorship Initiative, Sholakpe Shonuga, said Nigeria must dismantle structural and political barriers that continue to limit women’s participation in governance.

According to her, increased engagement with political parties, stronger civic participation, and deliberate policy interventions are necessary to expand opportunities for women in elective and appointive positions.

Shonuga also expressed support for the proposed Reserved Seats Bill, describing it as a key legislative effort aimed at correcting long-standing gender imbalance in Nigeria’s political system.

“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 includes a 16-year sunset clause, after which the reserved seats would lapse, with the expectation that women would have built stronger representation within the political system.

Calling on lawmakers to expedite action on the bill, Shonuga argued that women’s inclusion in governance would strengthen policymaking and contribute to national development outcomes.

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

Reflecting on Nigeria’s democratic journey after 27 years of uninterrupted civilian rule, she acknowledged persistent challenges but maintained that democratic governance had recorded notable progress.

“Nigeria is still standing. We are not under military rule, and citizens are able to express their views freely. While there is room for improvement, these are achievements worth recognising,” she said.

Also speaking at the event, Creative Director and Curator of Caustival 2026, Faith Dagbue, said the festival’s theme: ‘We Decide’, was designed to reignite civic consciousness and encourage citizens to take responsibility for shaping Nigeria’s democratic future.

She said widespread disillusionment with governance and unmet political expectations had weakened public participation, making civic engagement initiatives like the festival necessary.

“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 democracy, governance, citizenship and national development through creative expression.

She explained that participating artists were selected based on their ability to stimulate reflection, dialogue and civic responsibility through visual storytelling.

The festival also featured a documentary highlighting the experiences of women in politics and leadership, with contributions from Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, Khadijah Abdullahi and Abiola Akiyode-Afolabi.

Panel discussions at the event examined the realities facing women in public life, particularly the dual impact of expanded digital engagement and the rise of online harassment and intimidation targeting female political actors.

Participants noted that while digital platforms have created new spaces for civic expression, they are often weaponised to discourage women from participating in public discourse and leadership.

The event further showcased works from emerging artists addressing governance, social values and national identity.

One of the featured artists, Kelechi Chukwueke, presented an artwork titled “How Much,” which critiqued vote-buying and vote-selling while urging citizens to reflect on the value of their electoral choices.

He observed that the imagery on Nigeria’s currency often depicts prosperity and development that many citizens do not experience in reality.

The festival concluded with a call for young creatives, particularly women, to remain committed to their craft and resist stereotypes and criticism that may hinder their artistic and civic expression.