President Bola Tinubu says that his administration will work to ensure a higher participation of women in government.
He noted that his administration would work to ensure that there is at least 35 percent of women appointment into political offices and agencies.
The president in his manifesto document titled “Renewed Hope 2023 – Action Plan for a Better Nigeria,” said the law would seek employment of women in all government offices.
According to the manifesto, members of the Federal Executive Council are to reserve certain senior positions for women, while the private sector will be encouraged to do the same.
“Working with the National Assembly, we will aim to pass legislation promoting female employment in all government offices, ministries, and agencies. The goal will be to increase women’s participation in government to at least 35 percent of all governmental positions,” he noted.
“This legislation shall also mandate the federal executive (particularly the cabinet and core senior advisers) to reserve a minimum number of senior positions for women. Private institutions shall be strongly encouraged to do likewise.”
Before now, Nigeria has done poorly in the global ranking of women’s participation in governance and politics.
Nigeria consistently ranked poorly on the global gender equality index, with failed gender bills, violence against women and girls, and poor economic participation.
According to World Bank, while women make up 49 percent of Nigeria’s population, they have mainly remained underrepresented in the political space throughout the country’s history.
