The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) boss, Dr. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has called for more intentional support by political parties and the parliament for women in politics.
Speaking as a special guest at the Lagos State House of Assembly complex in Ikeja, where she delivered a speech on “The Role of Women in Nation Building” to commemorate the 25 years of democratic governance in Nigeria, Dabiri-Erewa noted that out of the over 1,300 elective positions at the state and federal levels, less than five per cent are women.
Describing Nigeria’s rating as the lowest in terms of women in elective positions in Africa, she said the statistics rather than increasing, has diminished over the years.
Dr. Dabiri-Erewa called on political parties to be sincere and intentional about getting women into elective positions, adding that Nigeria had more than enough gifted and competent women for any elective political office in Nigeria.
Dr. Dabiri-Erewa also called on the Parliament to give their backing to women friendly legislation, while calling on women professionals in all walks of life to participate actively in the political space.
“If you are not on the table, you will be on the menu,” she said.
The NIDCOM boss also commended women who have risen to top positions in Nigeria through their hard work, tenacity, and zeal.
She emphasised that women should take mentorship seriously and serve as role models to younger generations, paving the way for aspiring young women to occupy various positions in the society.
She applauded the Speaker of Lagos state House of Assembly, Dr. Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa, for the well organized event and expressed her hope that deserving women would be given opportunities to contribute to national development.
Dr. Dabiri-Erewa praised the intelligence, brilliance and energy of women, noting that Nigerian women rank among the best in the world.
The event which was hosted by the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa was attended by the wife of Lagos state Governor, Dr. Ibironke Sanwo-Olu, former governors, former deputy governors, past and serving assembly members, party leaders, party executives and members of the diplomatic corps.
