Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, laments that despite the progress made, there are still significant obstacles preventing African women from claiming a greater share in the political process.

She made this known in her speech at the Spotlight Initiative of the ECOWAS Parliament Female Parliamentarians Association (ECOFEPA) at the Alternative Chamber of the National Assembly in Abuja.

During her speech, she noted that deep-rooted societal norms, systematic discriminatory practices, structural problems within African political systems and financial inability are major barriers to women’s political participation in Africa.

She noted, however, that quotas have proven to be a powerful tool in increasing women’s political participation as they ensure that a minimum number of seats are allocated to women, thus promoting gender balance.

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“Countries such as Sweden, Norway and Spain have achieved significant representation of women in their parliaments, leading to more inclusive and representative governance,” she said.

“However, when we compare the data globally, we see that many countries have introduced quotas to improve female representation in boards.

“This large gap underscores the urgency of strategic planning and implementation of effective measures to meet the ECOWAS statutes that require 30% female representation in parliament. To fully achieve this, we must demonstrate that we practice what we preach.”

Tinubu added that Norway and Spain have successfully used gender quotas to achieve significant representation of women in their parliaments, leading to more inclusive and representative governance.

However, she said that when comparing the data globally, many countries have introduced quotas to improve women’s representation in boards.

“This striking difference underscores the urgency of strategic planning and implementation of effective measures to meet the ECOWAS statutes requiring 30% female representation in parliament.

“To fully achieve this, we must demonstrate that we walk the talk. For example, our party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), has taken significant steps to remove financial barriers by making nomination forms for elected positions free at the grassroots level, so that capable and qualified women can participate in the political process without the burden of prohibitive fees.

“Education is the cornerstone of empowerment. By improving access to education for girls and women, we can equip them with the knowledge and skills they need to participate effectively in political processes. In addition, it is crucial to raise awareness about the importance of women’s representation in governance.”

“Public campaigns, media engagement and community programs can help change societal attitudes and dismantle stereotypes that hinder women’s political participation. While quotas and education are essential, enforcement of these measures is equally crucial.

“Governments must put in place robust mechanisms to ensure compliance with gender quotas. This includes legal frameworks and monitoring systems that hold political parties accountable.

“Constitutional amendments may also be needed to enshrine gender equality in political representation. Such amendments would provide a solid legal basis for adequate representation of women, and ensure that gender equality is not just a policy preference, but a constitutional mandate.

“Civil society and women’s organizations have been at the forefront of advocating for gender equality in politics. Their efforts have led to significant progress, but more needs to be done.

“These organizations must continue to combat discriminatory practices and work with governments to create an enabling environment for women’s political participation.

“The journey towards 30% female representation in our parliament is achievable if we take the bold step to start the journey towards a sustainable democracy with quality representation,” she said.

Tinubu also commended the House of Representatives for passing a bill to reserve 74 seats for women in the National Assembly, in a bid to boost women’s participation in politics and governance.

“I believe that the leadership in the Senate is gender-friendly. I call on the 10th National Assembly to give women the necessary support.

“Nigerian women are smart and intelligent and can work together with their male colleagues without friction, for the welfare and development of our country.”