Lagos, June 15, 2024 – Abike Dabiri-Erewa, the Chief Executive of Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), says Nigeria’s rating on women’s participation in elective office as the lowest in Africa is disappointing.
She, therefore, called for more support to women’s participation in politics by political parties and the parliament.
Dabir-Erewa made the observation while delivering a lecture on “The Role of Women in Nation Building” at the Lagos State House of Assembly Complex in Ikeja as part of activities marking the 25 years anniversary of democratic governance in Nigeria.
She said that out of over 1,300 elective positions at the state and federal levels, less than five per cent were occupied by women.
Dabiri-Erewa said the statistic, has been diminishing, rather than increasing over the years.
She called on political parties to be sincere and intentional about getting women into elective positions, adding that Nigeria had more than enough gifted and competent women for any elective political office in Nigeria.
She also called on the parliament to back women-friendly legislation, while calling on women professionals in all walks of life to participate actively in the political space
In her words, “if you are not on the table, you will be on the menu.”
The NIDCOM boss commended women who have risen to top positions in Nigeria through their hard work, tenacity, and zeal.
She emphasised that women should take mentorship seriously, and serve as role models to younger generations, paving the way for aspiring young women to occupy various positions in the society.
Dabiri-Erewa applauded Dr. Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa, the Speaker of Lagos state House of Assembly, for the well organised event, and expressed her hope that deserving women would be given opportunities to contribute to national development.
She said Nigerian women are the cornerstone of society, describing them as beacons of creativity, peace, and determination.
She praised the intelligence, brilliance and energy of women, noting that Nigerian women rank among the best in the world.
She called on Nigerian women to put their best forward and urged women in various professions to participate actively in politics.
The event was hosted by the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa.
It was attended by the Wife of Lagos State Governor, Dr. Ibironke Sanwo-Olu, former governors, former deputy governors, past and serving assembly members, political party leaders, party executives and members of the diplomatic corps. (GBN)
