The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting increased participation and representation of women in political leadership and elective positions across Nigeria.
INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, made this known while receiving members of The Women’s Collective, an advocacy group under the auspices of The Electoral Hub, during a courtesy visit to the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja.
Yakubu emphasized that INEC, through its regular consultative engagements with political parties, has consistently championed the inclusion of underrepresented groups particularly women within party structures.
“The most effective way to ensure greater representation for women and other marginalized groups in legislative bodies is through affirmative action, backed by clear legal provisions,” the INEC Chairman stated.
He commended The Women’s Collective for their sustained advocacy efforts and assured them of the Commission’s continued support in advancing gender inclusion in the political space.
Speaking during the visit, leader of the group, Nkoyo Toyo, urged the National Assembly to expedite the passage of the Female Reserved Seats Bill, which seeks to guarantee a minimum level of female representation in elected offices.
Toyo expressed optimism that by the 2027 general elections, Nigeria would witness tangible progress in the number of women occupying political positions.
