By Vivian Onyebukwa
Government have been urged to include more women in the position of authority so as to enable them contribute to the nation’s development.
National President, Soroptimist International of Nigeria (SINA), Abiola Agusto-Agoro, made the appeal in a recent forum organized by her organisation in Lagos. She affirmed that there are many capable women in Nigeria who can play vital roles in the governance of the country if given the opportunity.
Agoro regretted that women who are breadwinners in most homes are hardly recognized both in their homes and in the political arena.
“Women are not well represented today in the governance and it ought not to be so. There are capable women in the society who can do exploits in their areas of specialty, what they need is recognition and the opportunity to explore.’’
Speaking on the theme of the 2024 International Women’s Day, titled “Inspire Inclusion”, she described it as ideal, adding saying, “It is a reminder to the government and stakeholders in the industry to see the need for more women to be included in the helm of affairs’’.
Agoro maintained that politics is not a dirty game, and advised women to get involved in politics so as to not only represent the interest of women, but also address issues affecting women in the country.
Lamenting high level of insecurity in the country, she urged the government to urgently tackle the issue, which according to her, if not reduced or eliminated will continue to affect all including women who are in politics. “There is increased cases of kidnapping in the country. Government should ensure the protection of the citizens particularly women who are in politics. A lot of women are afraid to go into politics due to fear of being kidnapped, so women in politics need protection from the government.’’
Speaking also at the event which held at the Methodist Girls High School, Yaba Lagos, Major General Olatilewa Amusu (Rtd) said the forum which had in attendance teachers and students of the school was ideal, adding that it would expose the young girls on what it takes to be successful in their future careers.
Olatilewa who is the President of the Methodist Girls’ High School Old Girls Association (MGHSOGA), disabused the mind of those who believed that women are clamouring for men’s position in terms of gender equality, adding that women are only interested in recognition.
High point of the event which was part of the organisers activities to mark 2024 International Women Day, was a panel discussion on women and leadership.