BY RITA OYIBOKA
A Non-Governmental Organization (NGO), Baobab for Women’s Human Rights has called for increased female representation in Nigerian politics, emphasising the critical need for women’s voices in governance and decision-making processes.
The call was made during a one-day strategic workshop in Asaba, Delta State, themed “From Margins to Mainstream: Improving Women’s Political Participation in Nigeria.” The event gathered key stakeholders from across the South-South region, including political leaders, activists, and representatives from civil society.
Speaking at the workshop, the Executive Director of Baobab for Women’s Human Rights, Yeye Dipo-Salami, stressed the urgent need for greater female inclusion in Nigerian politics.
According to her, “The purpose of this event is to galvanise support and create actionable strategies to bring women into the political arena and make sure the voices of those in political seats are heard.
‘’It is essential that we move beyond tokenism and actively work to ensure that women are not just included, but are prominent players in shaping the future of our nation. Women’s participation is not a luxury, it is a necessity for a thriving democracy.”
Guest speaker and Coordinator of the Delta Cares Project, Dr. Pat Ogbewe, also underscored the importance of women in political spaces, saying, “When women are not recognized, things don’t work smoothly. As 21st-century women, we must rise to the challenges and seize opportunities, especially in politics.
“Despite the progress women have made in other fields, their presence in politics and key appointments remains minimal. Deliberate efforts are needed to bring more women into leadership positions.”
Highlighting the current state of female representation in Nigeria, the Executive Director of the Kebetkache Women Development and Resource Center expressed concern over the dismal figures.
“In the National Assembly, women occupy only 4.4 per cent of the seats in the House of Representatives and 3.67 per cent in the Senate. Nationwide, only 48 out of 988 parliament seats are held by women, and 14 states have no female representation at all.”
Meanwhile, former Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Hon. Elizabeth Ativie, emphasised that politics is a profession rooted in service, dedication, and community empowerment, rather than a game. She highlighted that women can achieve leadership without nepotism, advocating for local engagement and grassroots efforts to drive change.
Likewise, Hon. Bridget Anyafulu, representing Oshimili South in the Delta State House of Assembly, urged women in politics to prioritise creating impactful change over personal gain.
Anyafulu stressed that women’s leadership has the power to drive progress, bridge divides, and shape Nigeria’s future, noting that women will bear the consequences if the country fails.
