Nigeria has been recording low participation of women in both elective and appointive positions. This is a growing concern to many Nigerians. However, concerted efforts have been made by government and non -governmental organizations to increase the level of participation of women in politics in line with the declaration made at the fourth World Conference on women in Beijing, which advocated 30% affirmative action.
In Nigeria, the extant National Gender Policy (NGP) recommended 35% affirmative action instead and sought for a more inclusive representation of women with at least 35% of both elective political and appointive public service positions respectively. The under representation of women in political participation gained root due to the patriarchal practice inherent in our society.
To this end, the GreenLand News Media Team, reached out to some women leaders to get their views. Speaking with Mrs Oluwatoyin Omolola Olanipekun, a Woman Leader and Director administration and Finance, Area Council Secretariat, she said “that the participation of women in politics will help improve the society much better. Women are not competitors to their menfolk but support for a better society.
According to her, “If a woman is empowered, there will be lesser challenges in the society. Women should lend their voices to achieve a better society. They should not be left out in politics because they are the home builders. Their positive contribution is key both in our society and nation building.
“In the politics of Nigeria, it is basically seen as a male dominated field and voice of women that have something to offer towards National development are not heard. We see a lot of cultural issues that have relegated women in the African society but however in cases where women have had the chance, they have been able to improve and speak better for the girl child.
She is passionate about the youth and encouraged them to promote peaceful coexistence in the society. According to her, “I want to start by saying that tomorrow belongs to the youths and in this just concluded election, the youths came out massively because they said they want a future for themselves and the future belongs to them. They are building bonds today. The bond is for a greater Nation they yearn for.”
Mrs Olanipekun who charged the youth to be united, promote national interest, see themselves as one Nigeria; join hands for the Interest of the Nation, also said they should live together in peace and harmony not allowing either tribal, ethnic, or, religious differences to divide them”.