NILOWV and NAWOJ Launch “74 Women in Parliament ” Campaign in Jos.

Rifkatu Kyemut.

In a powerful push to close the gender gap in Nigeria politics, the Nigerian League of Women Voters, NILOWV in collaboration with the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, NAWOJ has flagged off the “74 Women in Parliament” campaign.

The event which held at St. Louis College, Jos, brought together top stakeholders, media and other women associations to rally support for increased female representation in the National Assembly.

The campaign is aimed at creating awareness on the need to secure a minimum of 74 seats for women across Nigeria ‘s legislative houses, ahead of the next general election.

Earlier in her opening remark, NILOWV Plateau State chairperson, Hon. Esther Simi Dusu stressed the importance of women taking their rightful place in governance. She noted that this is more than just pushing for numbers it’s about women having influence in the decisions that shape the nation. Hon. Dusu added that Nigeria cannot afford to leave women behind.

Backing the movement, Senator Diket Plang, Sen. Representing Plateau central zone added his voice to the initiative by declaring his support for gender inclusive legislation and reforms.

The Senator reiterated that the inclusion of women in governance is not a favor, rather a democratic right and commended NILOWV and NAWOJ for the timely campaign. He added that as women they must love and vote for their fellow women who show interest in politics.He assured that he will support legislative effort that empower more women to lead.

Also speaking, the Commissioner of women affairs Hon. Caroline Dafur, praised the women for the campaign saying it is a vital platform to change Nigeria’s political landscape.

Mrs Dafur lamented that for long, the voices of women have been muted in the corridors of power and pointed that the initiative is a call to action for every women to ride and claim her space. As a government, we are committed to supporting this movement through policies, resources, and mentorship. She emphasized the importance of state level structures in creating safe space for aspiring female politicians.

In her message, chairperson of NAWOJ Plateau State chapter, Nene Dung, highlighted the role of media in dismantling stereotype and reshaping public perceptions.

Nene stressed that NAWOJ is not just reporting but are part of the story and added that NAWOJ is breaking the barriers with their voices, platforms and advocacy charging politicians to practice and promote internal democracy that truly reflects gender equity.

In her goodwill message, acting chairperson, Gender and Equal Opportunity Commission, Barr. Olivia Dazyem noted that the Commission fully aligns with the goals of the campaign and is ready to work with NILOWV and NAWOJ to ensure legal frameworks are enforced and that female candidates have fair access to opportunities at all levels for governance. She warned parents giving out their children to people they do not know that rather they should train them with the limited resources God has given them.

The event climaxed with the unveiling of the “74 Women in Parliament ” campaign banner, which signals a new era for women in Nigeria politics. Goodwill messages also came from the deputy Governor of Plateau state, Mrs Josephine Piyo represented by her press secretary, Martha Nyam, Prof. Mrs. Para Mallam, and wife of the chief of staff government house Mrs Janet Sartmark.