The United Nations has designated the theme: ‘Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress’ for the 2024 edition of the International Women’s Day.
The Speaker of the House of Representatives Rep. Abbas Tajudeen (APC, Kaduna) and his Deputy, Rep. Benjamin Kalu (APC, Aboa) have restated their commitment to empowering and including women in politics and governance, as the world marks the International Women’s Day on Friday.
The United Nations has designated the theme: ‘Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress’ for the 2024 edition of the International Women’s Day.
According to a press release by Musa Abdullahi Krishi, the Speaker’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, the Speaker congratulated women in Nigeria, Africa, and across the world, noted their immeasurable contributions to society, starting as mothers in the homes, who raise leaders.
The Speaker described women as critical stakeholders in any community, adding that they are strong pillars in the sustenance of homes and the development of any country.
Speaker Abbas noted that his strong passion for women’s growth and development necessitated his insistence on revisiting the passage of gender-related bills in the ongoing amendments to the 1999 Constitution.
“It is my hope that the ongoing review of the 1999 Constitution will empower women and place them in a better place in the polity,” Speaker Abbas said.
Meanwhile, the National Assembly will on Friday hold an International Women’s Day Conference themed: ‘Inspire Inclusion: Women Representation, Peace, Security, and Empowerment Driving Reform through Advocacy.’
President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, and Speaker of the House, Rep. Abbas Tajudeen, will co-host the event at the National Assembly Library.
Consequently, the Deputy Speaker, Rep. Benjamin Kalu in a statement by his special assistant on Press Affairs, Udora Orizu recognised the invaluable role women have played in advancing the progress of the country, noting that the theme of this year’s IWD “Inspire Inclusion” resonates with the agenda of the 10th House of Representatives to improve women’s political representation.
Kalu said the House Committee on Constitution Review which he chairs will ensure that the ongoing exercise will address the issue of gender imbalance. Acknowledging the strides made worldwide, Kalu however said the global statistic of only 25.5% of women holding seats in national parliaments is a sad reminder of the work left to do.
He said the celebration is an opportunity to reflect on the vital roles women play in society and a call for all stakeholders to cultivate a culture of inclusivity.
He said, “I extol Nigerian women as the world celebrates International Women’s Day. For this year’s International Women’s Day, we celebrate the theme “Inspire Inclusion.” While we acknowledge the strides made, the global statistic of only 25.5% of women holding seats in national parliaments is a stark reminder of the work left to do. Nigeria must champion inclusive progress– one where women are empowered to participate at all levels, including in our political sphere.
“Let us learn from international examples and explore innovative solutions like seat reservations to bridge the gender gap. Investing in women is not just the right thing to do– it is essential for a thriving and equitable society. On this International Women’s Day, let us commit to dismantling barriers and creating an environment where all, regardless of gender, can reach their full potential. When women are inspired to be included, there’s a sense of belonging, relevance, and empowerment and democracy thrives. The House Constitution Review Committee which I chair, have a lot of work in its hands to make sure the repositioning of women folks in our country is achieved. God bless the women of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
