Women across Kogi State have been encouraged to rise above cultural, social, and institutional barriers and take more active roles in politics and governance. This call was made during a one-day programme themed “Improving Inclusivity and Participation of Women in the Electoral Process in Kogi State,” held at the Modern Age Event Hall, Lokoja.
The event was organized by the Challenged Parenthood Initiative (CPI) to promote women’s inclusion in the political process and strengthen their engagement with key electoral stakeholders and institutions across the state.
The meeting, which began at 10 a.m., aimed to enhance women’s understanding of electoral laws and processes, build their capacity to navigate the electoral cycle, and establish a non-partisan, women-led coalition that will operate across Kogi’s three senatorial districts.
Delivering a goodwill message, Prof. John Gambo Laah, a member of the CPI Board of Trustees, urged women to take advantage of such awareness programmes to fully participate in shaping the future of Kogi State. He emphasized that women’s voices and leadership are vital to strengthening democracy and driving societal development.
The Chairman of the Kogi State Independent Electoral Commission (KOSIEC) and National Chairman, Forum of State Independent Electoral Commissions of Nigeria (FOSIECON), Hon. Mamman NDA Eri, called on women to remain committed to dismantling barriers that hinder their participation. He encouraged them to see themselves as voters, aspirants, candidates, and leaders, stressing that inclusive participation will help Kogi State set an example of fairness and equity for others to follow.
In her remarks, the Deputy Speaker of the Kogi State House of Assembly and Chairperson, House Committee on Women Affairs, Hon. Comfort Nwuchiola Egwaba, urged women not to shy away from leadership positions. She encouraged mutual support among women, while reminding them to maintain balance between their professional and domestic responsibilities.
Representing the Commissioner for Women Affairs, another speaker appealed to women to take bold steps into politics, saying their active involvement is key to building a stronger society.
The keynote lecture, delivered by Dr. Aisha A. Adaranjo, focused on “Political Participation in Kogi State – Gaps and Opportunities.” She highlighted socio-economic, cultural, and religious barriers as major obstacles to women’s involvement and challenged women to move from rhetoric to concrete action. “Enough of the talking; women should start taking action,” she said.
The programme also drew participants from several organizations, including the Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), Intra-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), National Orientation Agency (NOA), Women in Peace Council (WIPC), Nigerian Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), and the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA).
The Disability Rights Protection Initiative (DRP Initiative) was represented by Mrs. Esther Peter Sanda, Coordinator of the Kogi State Chapter. She made strong contributions during the discussions, stressing the need for inclusive political processes that address accessibility barriers and create equal opportunities for women with disabilities to participate fully.
One of the key outcomes of the meeting was the formation of a coalition of 60 non-partisan women across the state, dedicated to promoting gender inclusion and equitable representation in governance.
In her closing remarks, Mrs. Eunice Abimbola, Executive Director of CPI, appreciated all participants and partners for their dedication to the cause. The programme ended at 2:55 p.m., with renewed commitment among attendees to advance women’s participation and leadership in Kogi’s political landscape.
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