CurrentReport Blog The UN Women Political Participation Partners Working Group, in collaboration with the Ebonyi State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, has called for the swift passage of the Gender and Equal Opportunities Bill. The initiative, aimed at enhancing women’s political participation, was the focal point of a one-day stakeholder meeting held in Abakaliki.
The meeting, which took place at Cirenes Hotel, Abakaliki, brought together participants from various sectors, including Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), political leaders, human rights advocates, media, and UN Women representatives. The event highlighted the urgent need for gender-responsive legislation, electoral and constitutional reforms, and a roadmap to increase women’s representation in the 2027 general elections.
During the meeting, Prof. Mariam Mustapha from the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies emphasized the importance of passing the Gender and Equal Opportunities Bill. She explained that the bill, comprising seven parts with 46 sections, aims to eliminate gender-based discrimination and provide equal opportunities for everyone in Ebonyi State.
“The provisions of this bill are to protect our fathers, mothers, daughters, sisters, sons, nieces, nephews, and wives from all forms of abuse, violence, or discrimination,” Prof. Mustapha stated. She also noted that the bill would enhance access to education and improve women’s decision-making roles in society.
Mrs. Stella Okechukwu Kalu, a key speaker and representative of the UN Women Political Participation Partners Working Group, underscored the group’s efforts to promote women’s participation in politics. She applauded Governor Francis Nwifuru for his commitment to gender equality, citing the significant number of women holding political positions in his administration.
Kalu further highlighted the group’s initiatives, which include community engagement, capacity building, and participation in local August meetings to amplify women’s voices in the political arena.
