By Precious Oluwole

Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), in collaboration with Nigeria League of Women Voters (NILOWV) and Women in Politics Forum (WIPF) on Saturday, held a town hall meeting with women to sensitize them on participation in politics.

The town hall meeting with the theme : Engaging Grassroots Women for Robust Political Participation, took place at NUJ press center, Adegbemile, Akure the State capital.

Ahead of the November 16th governorship election in Ondo state, the women were told to show more interest in political participation to achieve adequate women’s representation.

In her remarks, the National President, Nigerian Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Comrade Aisha Ibrahim represented by Vice Chairperson, Zone D, Chizoba Ogbeche Said that Nigeria was signed to many charters that recognised women’s rights and representation hence the need for women to show their capacity by engaging in political affairs .

Comrade Ibrahim said women roles are pivotal in societal development,expressing hope that when the gender and equality bill is passed into law its would safeguard women against barriers and stereotypes.

She pledged that NAWOJ would continue to work towards building the capacity of women through enlightenment and advocacy .

Also speaking, the Vice President, B Zone ,Comrade Adeola Adekunle appreciated the national president for the advocacy and engaging session.

According to her, it is imperative that women actively participate in the political process by exercising their right to vote and supporting their fellow women who are running for office. By doing so, women can influence the decisions that affect their lives, communities, and future generations. By coming out to vote and supporting one another, women can effectively advocate for their rights, interests, and values. Let us empower women to take an active role in shaping their destiny and creating a more equitable society for all.

She said “When women are at the decision-making table, the results are better for everyone. Studies have shown that women leaders prioritize issues like education, healthcare, and social welfare – areas that directly impact the well-being of families and communities.

She added that women don’t need to only register to vote but also come out to contest and support one another in elections. “Together, let’s unlock the immense potential of grassroots women and build a brighter future, one where their voices are heard loud and clear in the halls of power”.

Also, the State Chairman, Nigeria Union of Journalist (NUJ) Prince Leke Adegbite commended Nawoj National headquaters for the initiative and urged them to help empower female Journalists in the state through training ahead of the governorship election in November 16th, 2024.

In her own submission, Mrs Yemi Mahmood said women are strong pillars that should support themselves to have adequate representation in parliament to push forward bills that would benefit the women folks.

Also speaking, a representative of Nigeria League of women Voters, Mrs olamiposi omofunmilewa urged women to speak with one voice and showcase their capacity in their different spaces .

In her Address, the State Chairperson, NAWOJ, Comrade Tola Gbadamosi expressed Happiness over the town hall meeting which she said had build capacity of women in Ondo state to know their roles in political participation for adequate representation.

She urged the participants to also sensitize other women on the need to be involved actively in politics .

Participants included: Women Civil Societies, NGOs, FOMWAN, Female Transporters, Gender-based organizations, Market women, Artisans among others.