WIPF calls for gender inclusivity in 10th National Assembly

The Women in Politics Forum (WIPF) has called for increased representation of women in key positions in the 10th National Assembly, citing merit, qualification, and experience as reasons why women are capable of leading. Speaking at a press briefing on the constitution of principal officers in the 10th National Assembly, WIPF Convener and President Ebere Ifendu urged political parties to uphold the National Gender Policy and adopt gender inclusivity as a mandate. 

She congratulated the 78 women elected across the country and called on parties with higher representation in parliament to ensure gender mainstreaming as a major requirement for electing principal officers.

Ifendu called on parties to fully support female members-elect from various parties, particularly those contesting for chairmanship of key committees. She emphasised the importance of female representation in principal offices of the House of Representatives, where high-ranking female officers are returning for the fourth time. If no female member ranks among the principal officers in the 10th National Assembly, it would be degrading to Nigerian women, according to Ifendu.

WIPF is advocating for gender-inclusive political parties and for zoning ratios to favour female members-elect in the allocation of principal offices. Ifendu expressed hope that political parties would consider the qualified women who are elected as members and not overlook their qualifications, experience, and commitment. The forum urged the National Assembly to prioritise bills and policies that promote gender equality and enhance women's participation in governance.

The forum noted that women have played significant roles in the development of Nigeria and are well-positioned to contribute to governance, given the right opportunities. WIPF also applauded the National Assembly for the passage of the Not Too Young to Run Bill and the Gender and Equal Opportunities Bill, noting that they are crucial for promoting gender parity in governance.

Ifendu stressed the need for female representation in the leadership of critical committees such as the Committee on Appropriation, Committee on Finance, and Committee on Women Affairs. She also called on political parties to address the low representation of women in the gubernatorial and state assemblies.

WIPF has expressed commitment to monitoring the selection and appointment of principal officers in the 10th National Assembly and ensuring that women are not sidelined or marginalised. The forum has also called for sustained advocacy for women's participation in politics and governance, and for the provision of support structures and resources to enable women to succeed.