***AS Push for Women’s Political Representation Gains Momentum at Town Hall
Senator representing the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Ireti Kingibe spoke at a Town Hall Meeting focused on women’s political participation, highlighting the urgent need for increased female representation in government.
During the event titled “Enhancing Women Political Representation: Female Legislators Constituency Outreach in Nigeria,” Kingibe pointed out that while women constitute half of Nigeria’s population, they occupy only four percent of the seats in the National Assembly.
She criticized the current state of women’s representation, noting that other countries, such as the Republic of Benin, are advancing toward 50 percent representation, while Nigeria, despite its status as a regional leader, continues to lag behind. “We must include women in decision-making roles, as their participation benefits the entire society,” she asserted.
Kingibe emphasized the unique perspectives and solutions women bring to community issues, particularly in health care, education, and social welfare. Citing a report from the IMF, she argued that closing the gender gap could significantly enhance Nigeria’s GDP.
She urged women to become actively involved in political parties and to support one another, stressing the importance of solidarity. “When women are elected, they tend to advocate for the interests of other women,” she noted.
The senator also addressed necessary legislative changes to promote female involvement, such as proposed bills for special seats and a target of 35 percent inclusion in all sectors. She called on attendees to rally support for these initiatives ahead of the 2027 elections.
Reflecting on her own political journey, Kingibe encouraged women to take ownership of their political futures and recognize the power of their votes.
In her conclusion, she reiterated the need to elect both women and gender-sensitive men to create a more inclusive political environment. “Let’s aim for 2027 as a milestone for increased female representation,” she urged, motivating those present to commit to this important mission.
The Director General of the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS), Professor Abubakar O. Suleiman, represented by the Head of Gender and Inclusivity Unit, Dr Emily IKhide, highlighted the pressing need for enhanced political representation for women in Nigeria.
Welcoming the attendees, Professor Suleiman pointed out the stark reality: although women make up half of the nation’s population and are active voters, their representation in political offices is dismally low, with just 4% in the National Assembly.
He expressed concern after witnessing the strides made by women in leadership roles during a recent trip to Kenya, contrasting it with Nigeria’s situation.
He urged the women present to recognize their power and potential, stating, “If they don’t give us the law, they cannot take our voice. It is shameful.” Suleiman called for a united front among women to support one another in political endeavors, education, and business initiatives.
The professor emphasized the necessity of building networks for female legislators, allowing constituents to connect and advocate for their representatives effectively.
He encouraged attendees to work together to achieve greater representation, asserting that with solidarity, they could surpass the targeted 35% inclusion rate.
In closing, he expressed gratitude to Senator Ireti Kingibe for her dedication to advancing women’s causes and encouraged all present to unite in support of female leadership, reinforcing that collective action is essential for meaningful change in Nigeria’s political landscape.
The gathering represented a crucial step in the ongoing conversation about enhancing women’s roles in governance and the structural changes needed for their increased representation in Nigeria’s political landscape
Tolulope Oluwafemi, a youth representative, also advocated for women’s empowerment in politics, drawing inspiration from Senator Heebah Ireti Kingibe.
Oluwafemi highlighted the need for increased female representation in Nigerian politics, citing statistics that show women hold only 27% of local government councilorship positions and 4% of parliamentary seats, ranking Nigeria 134th globally in women’s political representation. She called for advocating for gender-sensitive policies, cultural bills, and health initiatives that benefit women, celebrating the achievements of female lawmakers and encouraging continued efforts to dismantle systemic barriers.
Oluwafemi emphasized the importance of solidarity and determination in paving the way for future generations of women leaders.