SEEKS NATIONAL POLICY IMPLEMENTATION
By Vincess Okushi
The Independent National Electoral Commission has urged the present administration to make favorable considerations for women appointees to adhere to the National Gender Policy of 35% affirmative action in the country.
Chairman of the Commission, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu made the call while commemorating this year’s International Women’s Day, with the women in the commission on Friday, 8th March 2024 in Abuja.
Speaking on the theme “Inspire Inclusion; Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress”. The Chairman noted,
However, the Commission is aware of the concern raised by Nigerians about the low level of gender representation in elective positions nationwide. The Commission shares this concern and we have consistently been urging political parties to redress the obvious under-representation of women, youths, and persons with disability by nominating more of them as candidates for elections. To accelerate progress in this regard, I will go as far as calling on the National Assembly to introduce affirmative action as part of the electoral reforms that will ensure greater representation of women, youths, and persons with disability in elective offices nationwide. In the weeks ahead, the Commission will engage with the Senate and House of Representatives Committees on Electoral Matters on this and other areas of reform.
Also in his remarks, Prof. Kunle Ajayi, National Commissioner and Chairman, of the Outreach and Partnership Committee (OPC), said the theme “Celebrating Women in Election Management; Public Service, Knowledge, and Mentorship” is apt, noting that despite the series of targeted interventions to ensure equal participation and representation in the electoral process the country still lacks behind.
The establishment of the Gender and Inclusivity Department, to give gender and inclusivity matters in the electoral process a new focus for enhanced insight and multi-stakeholder-based approaches on contemporary gender and inclusivity responsive issues in the country. The Department is headed by a female Director and women constitute about 70% of the staff composition. This development is replicated in all INEC offices in the 36 States and the FCT.
Launching of the revised INEC Gender Policy (IGP) which seeks to respond to the emerging dynamics and demands of the present society, and to strengthen the institutional capacity of the Commission as a gender-sensitive government agency, which is responsive in its policies, practices, and its relationship with stakeholders, including political parties to mainstream gender equity in their operations and public space.
Adoption of 35% affirmative action by the Commission
Consistent organization of training for the Gender Desk Officers of the Commission.
Partnerships and series of engagements with gender-focused organizations.
And now the Commission is looking at a more scientific and data-based approach to addressing the gender gaps that persist in the electoral space.
The commission however stressed readiness to provide actionable recommendations to the advancement of gender equality and women empowerment in the country.