The Female Factor: How Women's Participation Can Transform Nigeria Elections In 2027.
By Dr Gloria Laraba Shoda
Nigeria, Africa's most populous country, has made significant strides in its democratic journey since the return to civilian rule in 1999.
However, one critical aspect of this journey remains largely untapped: the participation of women in the electoral process. Despite accounting for nearly half of the country's population, women's representation in Nigerian politics remains abysmally low.
According to the United Nations, women make up only 6.7% of elected and appointed officials in Nigeria, far below the global average of 22.5% ¹. This glaring disparity underscores the need for concerted efforts to promote women's participation in Nigerian elections. In this article, we'll explore the significance of women's participation, the challenges they face, and the ways in which their involvement can transform Nigeria's electoral landscape.
The Significance of Women's Participation
Women's participation in elections is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it ensures that women's voices are heard and their concerns addressed in the policymaking process. Women's experiences and perspectives are unique and invaluable, and their participation helps to create a more inclusive and representative democracy.
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Secondly, women's participation can help to bridge the gap between policymakers and the citizens they serve. Women are often more connected to their communities and are better equipped to understand the needs and concerns of ordinary Nigerians.
Finally, women's participation can help to promote peace and stability in Nigeria. Research has shown that countries with higher levels of women's participation in politics tend to be more peaceful and stable.
Challenges Facing Women's Participation
Despite the significance of women's participation, several challenges hinder their involvement in Nigerian elections. One major obstacle is the lack of financial resources. Women often struggle to access the funds needed to run successful campaigns, making it difficult for them to compete with their male counterparts.
Another challenge is the pervasive culture of patriarchy and sexism in Nigerian society. Women are often subjected to discriminatory practices, harassment, and violence, which can discourage them from participating in the electoral process.
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Finally, women's participation is also hindered by a lack of education and awareness about the electoral process. Many women are unaware of their rights and responsibilities as voters and candidates, making it difficult for them to participate effectively.
Transforming Nigeria's Electoral Landscape
So, how can women's participation transform Nigeria's electoral landscape? Firstly, women's involvement can help to promote a more inclusive and representative democracy. By bringing their unique perspectives and experiences to the policymaking process, women can help to create laws and policies that better serve the needs of all Nigerians.
Secondly, women's participation can help to promote peace and stability in Nigeria. By bringing a more collaborative and inclusive approach to politics, women can help to reduce conflict and promote social cohesion.
Finally, women's participation can help to promote economic development and growth. By bringing their skills and expertise to the policymaking process, women can help to create laws and policies that promote economic empowerment and development.
Prepare Early
In coming year, 2025, the preparations for 2027 elections will begin with each political party forming or reforming their party's structures by electing party leaders for wards and local government areas in each state of the federation. All in preparation for party primaries in 2026, when all the candidates for 2027 elections would be elected.
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Those who are interested in being part of the party leadership at the ward, local and state levels next should begin to join the party of their choice and take active roles that will help them in being chosen as candidates and getting elected or given political appointments.
As Nigeria therefore, prepares for future elections, it's essential that women's participation is prioritized. This can be achieved by providing women with the resources and support they need to participate effectively, promoting education and awareness about the electoral process, and addressing the cultural and societal barriers that hinder women's participation.
Conclusion
Women's participation is critical to transforming Nigeria's electoral landscape. By promoting a more inclusive and representative democracy, reducing conflict and promoting social cohesion, and promoting economic development and growth, women's participation can help to create a brighter future for all Nigerians.
These above facts are the reasons I have committed myself to educating women in Nigeria and Africa. By working together to promote women's participation, we can create a more inclusive, peaceful, and prosperous Nigeria for all.
Dr Gloria Laraba Shoda is the President of the African Regional Council of Women and Founder of African League of Women Voters.
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