As the world marks International Women’s Day (IWD) 2025, the Zuma Deck, Abuja chapter of the National Association of Seadogs (NAS), has called for urgent action to address gender inequality and ensure greater inclusion of women in governance, leadership, and decision-making processes.
During a sensitisation campaign in the Dutse Alhaji community of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), NAS emphasised the need for concrete policies and systemic reforms to promote gender equity.
The campaign, which included a road walk and interactive sessions, aimed to raise awareness about women’s persistent challenges and the need for immediate intervention.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Uju Patrick Chimezie, Project Manager of Zuma Deck, stated that gender inequality hinders societal progress and must be tackled deliberately.
He emphasised that societal progress can only be achieved when women are given equal opportunities to participate in governance.
“Women play a critical role in nation-building, yet they continue to be underrepresented in leadership and decision-making. This campaign is a call for inclusivity, ensuring that women have a voice in shaping policies that affect them,” Dr Uju stated.
As part of the advocacy efforts, NAS also visited Government Girls Secondary School, Dutse, where they engaged young girls in discussions about the importance of equal opportunities and the need to aspire to leadership positions.
“The girl child of today is the woman of tomorrow. We must begin early to instil in them the consciousness that they have the right to lead, participate, and be heard,” Dr Uju added.
He further stressed that achieving gender equality requires a collective effort, with men also playing a key role in advocating for women’s inclusion.
The advocacy campaign aligns with global efforts to promote gender equity and increase women’s representation in governance, leadership, and policymaking.
NAS reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining these efforts and ensuring that women’s voices are amplified in all spheres of society.
