NGO Engages Stakeholders On Endorsement Of Reserved Seats Bill 

 

A Non-governmental organisation, Balm in Gilead Foundation For Sustainable Development (BIGIF) has engaged stakeholders in Ekiti State for the endorsement of the reserved seat bill .

The intervention is geared towards increasing  women representation at the national and state assemblies.
Speaking at the  Senatorial Districts Advocacy Town Hall Meeting held in Aramoko-Ekiti on Gender Inclusion (Reserved Seats for Women in Politics) Towards the forth coming Nigerian Constitutional Amendments.the Executive Director of BIGIF, Oluwatumininu Adedeji said the purpose of the conference  was to mobilise people at the grassroot and national in ensuring that the bill is passed .
The bill, according to her seeks to fix the low representation of women in the legislative houses by providing for special constituencies to be contested and filled by women as a temporary measure to promote women’s political representation.She added that the bill is not about increasing the number of women in the legislature but will strengthen democracy and ensure fair representation to drive national progress.

Adedeji further said it would also aid development strides in the community, by getting involved in critical decision making processes that would promote the economic value of the country.

In her remarks ,the  Ekiti Commissioner for Women Affairs, Olapeju Babafemi described women’s political participation as a critical pillar for democratic growth and sustainable development.

Babafemi, represented by the Director of the Ministry, Olukemi Akinyele stressed that women leadership brings about vibrant communities, reflectiveness of diverse needs and responsiveness in the society.

She explained that  the bill would present women as influential decision-makers, policy advocates and leaders shaping governance at every level.

“I am committed to the vision of an inclusive, equitable political space one in which women are not merely seen as participants, but as influential decision-makers, policy advocates, and leaders shaping governance at every level.

“Ekiti State has long been a beacon for the promotion and protection of women’s rights, and today’s gathering strengthens that legacy by reaffirming our shared commitment to progress and equity.

“We believe that advancing women’s political participation is not only a matter of fairness, it is a critical pillar for democratic growth and sustainable development.

“Evidence has shown that when women lead, communities become more vibrant, policies more reflective of diverse needs, and societies more resilient and responsive”. She added

The Chairman of Ekameta Local Government Area of Ekiti State, Adetunji Adeleye said the bill would unlock great opportunities for the country.

He also urged women to participate in local politics, saying this would also prepare them for higher competitive politics.

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