A significant step toward equitable gender representation in Nigerian politics was taken with the inauguration of a Task Force to implement the “Charter of Demands” by Nigerian women for political parties.
The Task Force, launched by UN Women in partnership with the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), aims to enhance women’s participation and leadership in political spheres. At the inauguration in Abuja, UN Women’s Country Representative, Ms. Beatrice Eyong, represented by Susan Agada, highlighted Nigeria’s struggle with gender imbalance in political representation. Despite the National Gender Policy, women remain underrepresented in political structures.
Eyong remarked, “The Task Team will monitor the implementation of commitments made by all 18 political parties in endorsing the Nigerian Women Demand Charter, pushing for increased female participation ahead of the 2027 elections.”
Global Affairs Canada representative Melissa Camaganacan emphasized the positive correlation between gender parity in leadership and a country’s socio-economic development, urging for more women in decision-making roles. Similarly, INEC’s Prof. Kunle Ajayi called on the Task Force to ensure that commitments turn into action, stressing that women’s involvement would accelerate national progress.
IPAC Chairman, Mr. Yusuf Dantalle, acknowledged barriers like cultural norms and discriminatory laws but urged the Task Force to champion inclusivity and empowerment. Prof. Joy Ezeilo, one of the facilitators, reiterated that the Charter encapsulates women’s aspirations for equal political participation and leadership.
As the 2027 elections approach, the Task Force is expected to play a pivotal role in ensuring that women’s voices are heard and their representation increased in Nigeria’s political arena.
