The International Press Centre (IPC), have felicitated all elected female candidates at the just concluded general elections.
The IPC also congratulated, most especially, four of the elected female lawmakers who were part of the 45 female candidates whose skills were enhanced during a two-day capacity building on strategic communication and media use ahead of 2023 elections under the European Union Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria – Phase II (EUSDGN II) project.
The executive Director IPC Mr Lanre Arogundade who made this known in a press release said the four lawmakers who were recipients of IPC’s capacity building for female candidates includes : Hon. Fakunle Okieimen (Ekiti State House of Assembly); Hon. Maryam Ogunlade (Ekiti State House of Assembly); Hon. Rita Agbo Ayim (Cross River State House of Assembly) and Hon. Ayibanegiyefa Egba (Bayelsa State House of Assembly).
Mr. Arogundade noted that the knowledge gained were life-long skills which were generally and
particularly useful in advancing the electoral aspirations of the female candidates.
“we are indeed elated and rejoice with all the female candidates who emerged victorious in the recently concluded elections, especially those who went through our capacity building programme before the elections.”
“It also gladdens our heart that there is a marginal increase in the number of women elected into office at the sub-national parliamentary level, compared to the 2019 elections. This is an indication that concerted efforts at positioning more women in political office has yielded results and this should be sustained, moreso as women play important roles in the strengthening of democracy”, Arogundade added
He therefore charged the elected female lawmakers to ensure that they make a difference by sponsoring or supporting motions and bills that will promote inclusive governance so that
women, youths, persons with disabilities and rural dwellers can feel the positive effects of democracy.
Inclusive governance
On the female candidates who did not succeed at the polls, Mr. Arogundade advised them not to be discouraged stating that the future would be bright as awareness is growing on the benefits of increased female participation in politics and governance.
According to him, IPC will continue to partner with both the elected and non-elected female politicians on the promotion of inclusive governance in Nigeria.
Olusola Akintonde
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