In a strategic move to address the low representation of women in governance, the only female legislator in the Nasarawa State House of Assembly, Hon. (Dr.) Hajarat Danyaro Ibrahim has pledged a strengthened partnership with the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) to sensitise and mobilise women to engage in active politics.
The collaboration was solidified during a courtesy visit by the State leadership of NAWOJ to the lawmaker’s office in Lafia, the state capital.
The visit coincided with activities marking the International Women’s Day celebration.
Hon. Danyaro, who represents the Nasarawa Central Constituency and serves as the Chairman of the House Committee on Women Affairs, expressed concern over the current trend of female involvement in elective positions.
Despite women constituting a significant portion of the voting population, their presence in legislative and executive roles remains disproportionately low.
“NAWOJ has been a great association that I have been working with since I became a legislator. I know the significant roles played by this association during my campaign and the election. I will always be there for any of your advocacy, especially on women’s participation in politics, Dr Danyaro remarked.
The lawmaker urged the association to intensify its efforts in awareness creation, noting that the media serves as a critical bridge in changing societal perceptions and encouraging women to step into the political arena.
Responding on behalf of the association, the Chairperson of NAWOJ, Mercy Tanze, commended Dr Danyaro for her courage and for serving as a beacon of hope for women in the state.
She highlighted a stark irony in the Nigerian electoral process: while women often account for nearly 70 per cent of voter turnout, they rarely occupy the offices they vote for.
“We want to appreciate you and collaborate with you to sensitise women on how to participate in elective positions. Women are the ones who have almost 70 per cent participation in voting, yet we cannot occupy many elective positions. We will collaborate with your office to change this narrative“, Tanze said.
Both parties agreed on a framework for grassroots sensitisation and advocacy programs aimed at empowering women with the confidence and resources needed to seek elective mandates in future transition cycles.