Women have advocated for the establishment of increased avenues to boost their engagement in policymaking processes and to provide stronger support for female candidates during elections.
A recent survey by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) across Oyo, Ogun, and Kwara states revealed unanimous backing from women for the introduction of legislation that would allocate Special Legislative Seats for Women in Parliament.
Mrs. Folasade Aladeniyi, former chairperson of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Ibadan branch, emphasized that women’s involvement in politics transcends the issue of equality; it is essential for achieving balanced and effective governance.
She highlighted that women contribute distinct viewpoints, empathy, and inclusivity to leadership roles.
According to Aladeniyi, their participation guarantees that the concerns and interests of all societal groups, particularly women and children, are properly reflected in policy formulation.
Promoting greater female participation in political affairs, she argued, would enhance democratic processes and accelerate national progress.
She stressed that both capacity-building initiatives and the reservation of parliamentary seats for women are vital strategies to close the gender disparity in political representation.
Political education, she explained, empowers women with the essential knowledge, self-assurance, and leadership capabilities needed to compete successfully.
“Meanwhile, reserved seats serve as a mechanism to dismantle entrenched social and institutional obstacles that have historically hindered women’s access to political offices.
“Combined, these approaches level the playing field and motivate more women to pursue leadership positions. Women’s contributions are invaluable across all facets of national development-be it political, economic, or social. They are instrumental in sectors such as education, healthcare, business innovation, and community development.
“In governance, women frequently champion transparency, conflict resolution, and social equity; their active participation ensures inclusive growth and sustainable progress, making certain that every demographic is represented,” she concluded.
