A CALL FOR GENDER BALANCE, INCLUSIVITY, AND INVOLVEMENT OF WOMEN AND YOUTH IN GOVERNANCE AND POLICY-MAKING IN NIGERIA.

 

A CALL FOR GENDER BALANCE, INCLUSIVITY, AND INVOLVEMENT OF WOMEN AND YOUTH IN GOVERNANCE AND POLICY-MAKING IN NIGERIA.

 

Nigeria's democratic and socio-economic growth hinges on the inclusion of diverse voices in governance and policy-making. However, gender imbalance and the marginalization of youth have long plagued the country’s political sphere. A call for the increased involvement of women and youth in these critical areas is not just an advocacy issue, but a national imperative. Women and young people represent a significant portion of Nigeria’s population and have proven their capacity to contribute meaningfully to national development. Addressing these disparities will enhance governance, promote inclusivity, and foster sustainable development in line with global trends.

The Growing Role of Women in Development

In recent years, the world has witnessed a notable and rapid increase in the involvement of women in the development sector. Women across the world and Nigeria have taken the lead in various sectors, from education to entrepreneurship, social services, and civil society. This shift reflects a growing awareness of the value of women's participation in shaping policies that address fundamental issues such as poverty, healthcare, education, and economic growth.

Development organizations, NGOs, and international bodies have been pivotal in this transformation, creating platforms that empower women to assume leadership roles. In particular, the development sector has been a vital avenue for women to assert their influence, ensuring that their voices are heard in decision-making processes. By including women in key positions, development projects become more inclusive and reflective of the diverse needs of society. However, despite these strides, women’s participation in governance and policymaking remains limited, reflecting broader structural inequalities in the system.

Why Gender Balance and Youth Involvement Matter

Gender balance and youth inclusion are essential for a functioning democracy. Women and youth bring unique perspectives to the table, and their involvement in governance ensures that policies are reflective of the needs of the entire population. Studies show that countries with higher levels of gender equality in leadership tend to have stronger economies and more resilient social structures. Involving young people in policy-making also guarantees that governance reflects the aspirations and the needs of the society.

Nigeria’s youth, representing over 60% of the population, are a critical asset to the nation. Their creativity, energy, and technological expertise offer a unique advantage in governance and policymaking. However, the exclusion of young people from leadership positions has stifled their potential to contribute to the nation’s progress. Meaningful youth participation in governance is crucial to ensuring policies that reflect their interests and address contemporary challenges such as unemployment, digital transformation, and sustainable development.

 

To achieve long-lasting change, young Nigerians must be empowered with leadership opportunities and given platforms to engage in national discourse. This is particularly important in today’s digital age, where youth have the skills and adaptability to drive Nigeria’s socio-economic agenda forward.

 

 

The Role of CIA in Promoting Gender Equality and Youth Empowerment

Community Impact Affinity (CIA) is at the forefront of promoting gender equality and youth empowerment in Nigeria and beyond. Recognizing that women and youth are underrepresented in governance, CIA has initiated a series of programs to empower these groups. The organization's commitment to fostering inclusion and gender balance is not only in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) but also a response to Nigeria’s need for a more equitable society.

One such initiative is the ongoing 'PinkUpforGirls' campaign, which CIA is championing in collaboration with The Women International and Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development. This campaign promotes the education and empowerment of girls across Nigeria, advocating for equal opportunities in education, health, and economic participation. The campaign is designed to break down barriers that prevent girls from reaching their full potential, addressing issues such as child marriage, access to education, and economic independence. Through partnerships with schools, governments, communities, and other stakeholders, CIA is working to create an environment where girls can thrive and contribute to society.

In line with its commitment to youth empowerment, CIA has also launched the nationwide Youth Empowerment Initiative Master Plan (CIA-YEIMP). This initiative, which includes an ICT Scholarship Program, aligns with the present administration’s Digital Literacy Plan aimed at equipping the younger generation with vital technological skills. The scholarship is set to empower over 2,000 youths in each state of Nigeria by 2030, with a particular focus on those from marginalized communities. Through digital literacy training, CIA is preparing young Nigerians to take up leadership roles in a technology-driven world, thus contributing to national development.

Through the CIA-YEIMP, youth across Nigeria are to gain access to critical IT skills that will not only improve their employment prospects but also enable them to participate in policy formulation and governance in the future. By bridging the digital divide, CIA is creating a pathway for Nigerian youth to become active contributors to the country's development.

 

The Way Forward

Achieving gender balance and inclusivity in governance requires collective action and political will. Nigeria must adopt policies that promote gender equality and youth involvement, ensuring that decision-making processes reflect the diverse perspectives of all citizens. Women and youth need not only be represented but also given substantial roles in crafting policies that shape the country’s future.

 

Organizations like CIA demonstrate that with the right support and commitment, the barriers to women’s participation in leadership and youth engagement can be overcome. The involvement of women and youth in governance is not merely a goal but a necessity for building a sustainable and equitable future for Nigeria.

The time for change is now. Nigeria must embrace inclusivity and give voice to the women and youth who will lead the country into its next phase of development.

 

I am Amb. Wilson Babangida Agboti

Defence/Development Consultant.

Co-Founder/Chief Operating Officer, Community Impact Affinity (CIA)

Youth and Development Ambassador, West African Youth Alliance (WAYA)

w.agboti@cimahub.org www.wilsonbabangida.online

 


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