The Kaduna State Government has pledged its support for women’s rights across the nation.
This commitment was reaffirmed during the launch of the “Her Seat in Parliament and Governance Campaign, Ward to Ward,” organized by the League of Women Voters of Nigeria (NILOWV) in collaboration with the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) at the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Secretariat.
Speaking at the event, Lami Usman, Deputy Director of Gender Affairs, who represents the Commissioner for Human Affairs and Social Development, Rabi Salisu emphasized the government’s dedication to empowering women economically, politically, socially, and financially.
She stated that “I call on women to stand to be given the right to vote and be voted for. The inclusion of women in decision-making is crucial to understanding their unique challenges.”
Salisu highlighted that the empowerment of women positively impacts entire communities and the nation at large, aligning with Governor Uba Sani’s vision for sustainable development through women’s engagement and participation.
Barrister Julie Ariahu, the Kaduna State Chairperson of League of Women Voters of Nigeria (NILOWV), elaborated on the goals of the campaign. She explained that the initiative aims to advocate for the seventy-four Special Seat Bill and thirty-five percent affirmative action at all levels of governance, which she considers vital for Nigeria’s development amid ongoing constitutional reviews.
“This campaign is a golden opportunity to place Nigeria on the radar of inclusive nations,” she said.
Ariahu stressed that, despite Nigeria’s commitments to international laws advocating for gender equality, very few women occupy seats in various state assemblies.
Citing successful female representation examples from countries like Rwanda and Tanzania, she urged Nigerian policymakers to adopt similar measures to enhance women’s representation in governance.
Aisha K. Bura, the National President of NAWOJ, echoed these sentiments, expressing full support for the 74 Special Seats Bill and calling on other states in the North-West to follow Kaduna’s lead in empowering women politically.
She expressed optimism for women’s rightful place in governance and encouraged constant advocacy for their inclusion
Former lawmaker, Florence Aya shared her observations from over two decades of mentoring women, asserting that proper legislation is essential for progress.
She urged the government to prioritize the passage of this important bill.
Sahura Maidoki, the Acting Chairperson of NAWOJ in Kaduna, pledged their commitment to raising awareness about women’s roles in society and emphasized the need for more women to participate in decision-making processes.
The event concluded with the unveiling of the national emblem for the “Her Seat in Parliament and Governance Campaign,“ by Commissioner Rabi Salisu. Representatives from various organizations, including the International Federation of Female Lawyers (FIDA) and the National Council of Women Societies (NCWS), expressed their support for the special seats initiative, emphasizing its significance for Nigeria’s growth and development.
The Kaduna State Government, along with multiple advocacy groups, reaffirmed its commitment to advancing women’s rights and increasing female representation in governance, setting a hopeful tone for future endeavours in the fight for gender equality.
Comments are closed.