By Jovitta Iorshase & Nancy Adanu
The Young Women in Politics Forum (YWIPF) Benue chapter has advocated for more seats in the state houses of assembly and at the National Assembly.
The group made this known Tuesday when they matched in peaceful protest to the Benue State House of Assembly to advocate for women in politics and more legislative seats as part of its activities to celebrate women as the world marks International Women’s Day Tuesday, March 8, 2022.
The Coordinator, YWIPF Benue chapter, Barr Member Adiguve, who disclosed this in an interview with The Voice on said, on an auspicious day like the International Women’s Day, the women, who form a larger part of the world’s population should not go unnoticed.
Barr Adiguve said, the forum which was initiated by the Canadian government and UN Women, due to the poor performance of women in the 2019 general elections in the country intends to create interest and build capacity of women to engage in politics.
She added that an academy has been established and 50 Benue women have already been trained in the areas of mentorship, leadership, governance etc in politics and was doing it’s best to actualize the 35% affirmative action though it is a gradual process.
“The forum established an academy where 59 young Benue women were trained in areas of governance, leadership, mentorship programmes etc to build capacity and interest of young women to join politics, take over from the older ones and bring the programme down to the grass root.
We are hopeful for nine slots this time in Benue against the seven slots we had in the past, so to me it is an achievement,” she said.
The coordinator further explained that, talks on their early beginnings in politics, challenges, successes and the way forward from pioneering female politicians will also be included in their activities today, to encourage and celebrate all the women.
Meanwhile, a former deputy governor of Benue State, Chief Steven Lawani, in marking the International Women’s Day on Tuesday, observed a moment of reflection on the indispensable role of women in nation building.
The Ochagwu K’Idoma in his goodwill message, recognized the stabilizing role of women, especially Benue women in every sector of life, and equally lauded their tireless efforts in fostering peace and unity in Benue communities.
He further used the occasion to mobilise support for increased participation of women in leadership positions, urging key players around the world to make the leadership sector less cumbersome for effective participation of women.
He also stated that, “on a special occasion like this, we are inundated to recognize the tireless efforts of women in creating the conducive atmosphere that strengthens our society morally, economically, politically and socially.”
He also noted said: “We are not unaware of their indispensable role in nation building, and their high level of commitment to a united and peaceful society.”
He urged the active players in the leadership sector, world over to make the leadership processes less cumbersome, so as to encourage increased participation of women and called on women to do more in securing a comfortable future for their children. He insisted that the burden is on women to usher in quality leadership, that will guarantee better life for the incoming generation.
Chief Lawani in conclusion prayed for the womenfolk, asking God to continue to empower them with the patience, tolerance, strong health, and vigour, with which to continually play priceless roles in securing a better society for all.