VOW2024: Stakeholders support increased representation of women in leadership positions

Stakeholders on Thursday advocated actionable strategies that enhance women’s representation in leadership roles in the country.

They said this at the eighth Voice of Women Conference and Awards organised by the Voice of Women Empowerment Foundation in Abuja, themed, “Achieving women’s inclusion for a sustainable Nigeria.”

In her welcome address, the chairman of the planning committee of the event, Dr Abiola Akiyode-Afolabi, highlighted that the conference was a platform for stakeholders to engage in meaningful dialogue, fostering support for grassroots women who are the backbone of communities and the country.

She said, “Our discussions will revolve around actionable strategies that enhance women’s representation in leadership roles, recognising that inclusive governance is key to achieving national development and sustainability.

“The significance of amplifying women’s voices cannot be overstated; together we have the power to reshape policies and create opportunities for all women.”

The convener and Chief Executive Officer of Women Radio 91.7 FM, Toun Sonaiya, urged President Bola Tinubu to lend his voice and political will to get the 74 extra seats bill passed by the 10th National Assembly.

Sonaiya stated, “We need you to be deliberate using your voice and political will to do more and elevate Nigerian women’s inclusion to global standards.

“Education is our pillar to knowledge and I thank you for making life a step easier for parents and guardians in meeting financial obligations by introducing the NELFUND loan.

“Data shows that fewer females apply for the NELFUND loan. I appeal to mothers and guardians to encourage their girls to take advantage of this generous government initiative. Please, get your girls to apply so that our dreams of a better and greater Nigeria can be realised.”

The United Nations Country Representative to Nigeria, Beatrice Eyong, noted that women’s empowerment is not merely a matter of equality but a foundation for sustainable development, inclusive governance, and resilient society.

Eyong, who was represented by UN Women Nigeria’s National Programme Officer, Patience Ekeoba, said women at every level of society have the unique ability to shape lives, especially women at the grassroots.

Eyong said, “They can redefine norms. They can create systems of governance. They can reflect the needs of all of us, as has been, of course, elaborated here today.

“However, women have been underrepresented in leadership roles and decision-making processes for too long. This is not due to a lack of competence or vision but structural barriers limiting, access, opportunity, and solidarity.

“Today, I want to focus on the potential and power of grassroots women and the importance of strengthening the bond between grassroots women and urban women, together, they form an unstoppable force capable of breaking down barriers. A lot of these barriers have been enumerated as well today, and they also have the power to transform culture and governance. Grassroots women, if you like, rural women, are the backbone of our society.

“They have also consistently proven their resilience, their creativity, and their resourcefulness, often with limited resources and recognition, their involvement in governance and leadership is not only crucial but overdue when grassroots women are supported and empowered, they uplift the entire society,” she stated.

She stressed that increasing women’s participation in governance and leadership begins with supporting women who are at the grassroots level.

In her keynote speech, the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Barrister Nkeiruka Onyejeocha emphasised the importance of rural women in driving change.

Onyejeocha acknowledged the resilience of rural women despite disappointments and stressed the need for inclusive policies, such as the 35 per cent affirmative action, to empower them.

She attributed her political success to her strong connection with grassroots women, noting that their collective strength significantly influenced her electoral victories.

“The conversation following the 2023 edition, especially those held with women at the grassroots across six geopolitical zones, have reminded us of the profound impact and truth that without the rural women, 35 per cent affirmative action, additional seats, legislation would be a far cry because the people who have to make it happen have not been on board.

“My success in politics was because I was connected to the rural women,” the minister noted.

The Senator representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, acknowledged the resilience of Nigerian women, especially those from rural and civil service backgrounds.

Akpoti-Uduaghan categorised women into married women, civil servants, and entrepreneurs, highlighting the unique issues each group encounters.

She encouraged aspiring female politicians to authentically engage with these women’s concerns, promising real change and support.

The senator added that empowering women was crucial for societal progress, and women in politics must prioritise the needs of their constituents to create meaningful change.

“For women vying for political offices, you have to sell a relatable idea to the Nigerian woman, especially the married folks, and assure them that when you get voted, you will prioritise their well-being, care and worth,” she said.