Calls for Urgent Reform to Enhance Women’s Political Participation in Nigeria
A coalition of faith-based and civil society organizations (CSOs) has issued a rallying cry for significant reforms to strengthen women’s empowerment and engagement in political leadership in Nigeria, as the country approaches the 2027 general elections.
The coalition urges Nigeria’s political leadership across all levels to move beyond mere rhetoric and to initiate concrete, structured, and enforceable actions. Their goal is to foster truly inclusive and representative leadership that enables meaningful participation and long-term success.
This coalition includes notable organizations such as the African Faith and Justice Network, the United Nations Dominicans for Justice and Peace, the African Faith and Justice Network Nigeria, the Catholic Chaplain Sisters, and several civil society representatives. They articulated their position at a press conference held in Abuja on Tuesday.
Eukaria Maduekesinia, representing the coalition, emphasized the need to reform political party structures and to implement policies that empower women. Additionally, she highlighted the importance of strengthening inclusive democratic governance and enforcing laws aimed at punishing electoral violence and harassment.
Maduekesinia pointed out that, despite constituting half of Nigeria’s population, women remain significantly underrepresented in governance at national, state, and local levels. This disparity not only limits diverse perspectives on national issues but also hinders the country’s capacity for equitable and sustainable development.
She noted that various structural, cultural, social, economic, and political factors converge to create formidable obstacles to women’s representation in governance. Furthermore, the prevailing political climate often makes it challenging for individuals without a “godfather” to succeed or maintain leadership roles.
Highlighting the challenges faced by women aspirants, Maduekesinia stated that they frequently encounter violence, harassment, and intimidation, which deter their participation and jeopardize their safety during campaign activities.
She drew attention to the successful examples of countries that have enacted laws guaranteeing women’s participation in politics. For instance, Rwanda records 64% female participation, while other nations like Cuba, Nicaragua, Andorra, Mexico, and the UAE boast participation rates of 56%, 55%, 50%, 50%, and 50% respectively.
In stark contrast, Nigeria’s female participation rate languishes at just 4%, placing it 178th out of 182 countries surveyed. This figure underscores the urgent need for reform and reflection on Nigeria’s policies.
Maduekesinia recalled that Nigeria adopted a National Gender Policy in 2006, which aimed for at least 35% representation of women in public office. However, the country has fallen short in both legislating and enforcing this policy.
She argued that addressing gender balance in leadership requires comprehensive laws aimed at transforming the social, cultural, and political landscape. For inclusive leadership to become a reality, it is crucial to strengthen democratic governance and enact policies that meet the financial needs of aspiring female candidates.
Maduekesinia asserted that inclusive leadership is not merely about achieving gender parity; it is essential for developing policies that are more comprehensive and promote the common good. When women actively participate in decision-making processes, policies become more considerate of community needs, leading to resilient governance and sustainable development that benefits the nation as a whole.
Such changes would align Nigeria with its commitment to promote democracy and fulfill its responsibilities within the international development framework. The coalition is therefore calling on Nigeria’s political leaders at all levels to transition from rhetoric to tangible action, ensuring that inclusive and representative leadership becomes a reality, paving the way for meaningful participation and long-lasting success.
According to Maduekesinia, investing in women’s full participation in governance is not just a matter of equity; it presents Nigeria with an opportunity to leverage a wealth of talent and innovation, driving sustainable national development forward.
