The Speaker of the House of Representatives ,Rt Hon Tajudeen Abbas has declared that no nation or democracy can survive without mainstreaming women.
Speaking at the inaugural conference of Southern Women Empowerment Forum (SWEF) held at Wells Carlton Hotel, Abuja ,the speaker assures of more roles for women in the constitution.
The forum called on policymakers, civil society organizations, and the private sector to take concrete actions to challenge and dismantle gender stereotypes in all sectors of society.
At the conference tagged “Breaking Barriers: Overcoming Gender Stereotypes in Nigeria”, Dr Abbas decried the reduction in the number of women elected into various offices across the country, after the 2023 general election.
Specifically, Dr Abbass disclosed that efforts are ongoing to reintroduce a Bill seeking reservation of seats for women in the National Assembly.
Another highlight of the conference attended by the leaders of the forum from the 17 Southern States, was the confernent of Exemplary Performance Awards on some eminent Nigerians. Among the awardees were Director General of the Department of State Services (DSS),Alhaji Yusuf magaji Bichi ,Alhaji Ahmed Rufai DG Nigeria Intelligence Agency(NIA) and House of Representatives member from Oyo State, Hon Stanley Olajide
Others were, Dr Akinwunmi Akinfenwa, Her Royal highness. Ivrie Emiko .Olori Atuwase 111.wife of olu of warri and the Royal father of the day Amb. Abeeb Adetoyese Abayi, the Olu of Ilegbo Kingdom, Osun State,
In his speech delivered by the Deputy Chief Whip of the House, Otunba Adewumi Onanuga, the speaker promised that the house will pass the gender equal opportunities bill “to ensure women are active and equal participants in Nigeria’s political and decision making processes.
He stated that democracy could only be meaningful and attractive, when it ensures the inclusion and participation of all segments of the society irrespective of faith, gender, identity, and other class divisions. “I make bold to say that there can be no democracy and indeed, development without women,” the speaker said .
The house will strengthen oversight of government institutions to ensure compliance with the National Gender Policy,” as well as “the full implementation of the 35 percent Affirmative Action on appointing an elective position in both public and private sectors.”
In her speech, former first lady, Dame Patient Jonathan also charged the forum to remain committed to the goal of advancing women’s rights and economic independence.
Jonathan who is the National Grand Matron of the forum, recalled that as Nigeria’s first lady, she diligently applied “to the advocacies to mentoring women to occupy no less than 35 percent of both elective and appointive positions in our country.
“Then I found that Woman for Change and Development Initiative as my pet projects to advance this course.”
Mrs. Jonathan who was represented by Mrs. Adike Iloma, promised to make herself available to work with members of the forum.
“I believe that gradually we shall build the capacity of women in our country to adequately equip them for the tasks of guiding our nation to peace, progress and prosperity,” she added.
The First Lady of Bayelsa State Glorua Diri urged women to be ready to lift one another and seek elective post .
President of SWEF Dr. Helen Adebakin said she was committed to championing the cause of women empowerment and breaking down the barriers that have held women back for far too long.
Dr. Adebakin assured that the forum would strive to create a more inclusive and equitable society where every woman has the opportunity to reach her full potential without being confined by outdated notions of what it means to be a woman.
“As we navigate the dynamic landscape of women’s empowerment, let us engage in insightful discussions, share experiences, and forge partnerships that will propel us towards a more inclusive and equitable society.
“Together, we can create a future where every woman is not only free to dream but is also empowered to turn those dreams into reality,” she stated.
Dr. Adebakin presented cash empowerment to about 10 men and 10 women randomly selected from different parts of the country.
The forum urged policymakers, civil society organizations, and the private sector to take concrete actions to challenge and dismantle gender stereotypes in all sectors of society. This includes promoting gender equality in education, employment, healthcare, and leadership roles.
It also emphasized the importance of empowering women through education, skills training, and economic opportunities. By providing women with the necessary tools and resources, we can break down barriers and enable them to reach their full potential.
The Southern Women therefore called for increased advocacy and awareness campaigns to combat gender stereotypes and promote positive representations of women in the media, arts, and culture. It is essential to challenge harmful narratives and promote gender equality in all spheres of society.
” We emphasize the importance of building strong networks and partnerships to support and empower women in Nigeria. By working together, we can amplify our voices, share resources, and create lasting change in our communities.
“In conclusion, we affirm our commitment to breaking barriers and overcoming gender stereotypes in Nigeria. We will continue to advocate for the empowerment and inclusion of women in all aspects of society, ensuring a more equal and just future for all.” the communique reads in part .
Present at the event were Royal father of the day Amb. Abeeb Adetoyese Abayi, the Olu of Ilegbo Kingdom, Osun State, Wife of Bayelsa State governor Mrs Regia Diri, wife of former first Lady of Ebonyi State Mrs Eunice Egwu, wife of former governor of Lagos State Fatima Raji-Rasaki, former member that represented Langtang North, Langtang South federal Constituency of Plateau State, Hon. Beni Lar, Woman Leader of the Peoples Democratic party Amina Arong and other notable women.