Nigerian Women’s Demand Charter Takes  Step Forward With Inauguration Of Task Team

Abuja, THE NEWSHAUS –  A new era of women’s political representation in Nigeria appears to be on the horizon with the inauguration of a Task Team dedicated to the implementation of the “Nigerian Women Demand Charter.”

The Charter, endorsed by all 18 political parties in September 2023, outlines key demands for increasing women’s political participation.

The Task Team, a joint initiative of UN Women and the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), was officially launched on Friday in Abuja.

Representatives from various stakeholders, including government officials, political party leaders, and civil society organisations, gathered to mark this crucial step towards achieving gender equality in Nigerian politics.

Speaking at the inauguration, Susan Agada, Programme Officer, Peacebuilding and Prevention, UN Women, highlighted the significance of this initiative.

“Nigeria faces significant challenges in achieving gender equality in political representation,” she stated, emphasising the stark underrepresentation of women in political structures despite national policies and international commitments.

“This Task Team is a beacon of hope,” Agada added, expressing optimism that the team’s work will pave the way for increased women’s representation in leadership roles.

Melissa Camaganacan, representing Global Affairs Canada, underscored the global significance of equal representation. Research has consistently shown that countries with greater women’s representation in leadership roles exhibit significant progress in overall development.

Camaganacan pointed out that increased women’s participation in political leadership directly contributes to economic growth.

Prof. Kunle Ajayi, National Commissioner and Chairman of the Outreach and Partnership Committee at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), stressed that the Task Team will play a crucial role in ensuring that the commitments outlined in the Charter are translated into concrete action.

He emphasised that women possess the power to drive positive change in the political landscape.

Yusuf Dantalle, Chairman of IPAC, acknowledged the cultural barriers and discriminatory laws that have historically hindered women’s political aspirations.

He called for inclusivity and a concerted effort to overcome these obstacles, emphasizing the need for gender equality and women’s empowerment.

Prof. Joy Ezeilo, a facilitator at the event, explained that the Charter represents the collective voice of Nigerian women, particularly female politicians, demanding their rightful place in political parties and the decision-making process. The Charter’s key demands include:

Political will and commitment to gender equality and women’s empowerment

Increased women’s participation in politics and decision-making
Demonstrations of principled transformational leadership

The Task Team, through its collaborative efforts with UN Women and key partners, will be responsible for:

Monitoring the implementation of the Charter’s commitments
Validating its terms of reference
Drafting an action plan.

This initiative marks a significant step forward in promoting gender equality in Nigerian politics. With the active engagement of all stakeholders, including political parties, government agencies, and civil society, the Task Team is poised to bring about meaningful change in the country’s political landscape, paving the way for a more inclusive and representative future.

The inauguration of the Task Team serves as a powerful message: the time for equal representation of women in Nigerian politics is now.