By Stella Odueme
The International Press Centre (IPC), Lagos has congratulated all elected female candidates who emerged victorious in the recently concluded general elections, with a call to ensure inclusivity in governance.
IPC especially congratulated four of the elected female lawmakers who were part of the 45 female candidates whose skills were enhanced during a two-day capacity building on strategic communication and media use ahead 2023 elections under the European Union Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria – Phase II (EUSDGN II) project.
The capacity building sessions, which were held December 2022, at Osogbo and Port-Harcourt respectively were part of the activities under Component 4 (Support to Media) implemented by IPC.
Hon. Fakunle Iyabo Okieimen (Ekiti State House of Assembly); Hon. Maryam Ogunlade (Ekiti State House of Assembly); Hon. Rita Agbo Ayim (Cross River State House of Assembly) and Hon. Ayibanegiyefa Egba (Bayelsa State House of Assembly) are the four who were recipients of IPCs capacity building for female candidates.
While noting that the knowledge gained were life-long skills which were generally and particularly useful in advancing the electoral aspirations of the female candidates, the Executive Director of IPC, Mr. Lanre Arogundade said: “we are indeed elated and rejoice with all the female candidates who emerged victorious in the recently concluded elections, especially those who went through our capacity building programme before the elections.”
“It also gladdens our heart that there is a marginal increase in the number of women elected into office at the sub-national parliamentary level, compared to the 2019 elections. This is an indication that concerted efforts at positioning more women in political office has yielded results and this should be sustained, moreso as women play important roles in the strengthening of democracy”, Arogundade added.
He charged the elected female lawmakers to ensure that they make a difference by sponsoring or supporting motions and bills that will promote inclusive governance so that women, youths, persons with disabilities and rural dwellers can feel the positive effects of democracy.
Arogundade advised those who did not win not to be discouraged stating that the future would be bright as awareness would continue to grow on the benefits of increased female participation in politics and governance.
He assured that IPC would continue to partner with both the elected and non-elected female politicians on the promotion of inclusive governance in Niger.
