FIC Report (Benue State) – The Secretary to the Benue State Government (SSG), Mrs. Deborah Serumun Aber, has officially endorsed the Nigeria League of Women Voters (NILOWV) in Benue State. This endorsement was declared during an advocacy visit by the National Executive Council (EXCO) of NILOWV and Benue State representatives to her office on May 28, 2025.
Mrs. Aber commended the tireless efforts of women in Benue and across Nigeria in advocating for increased female representation in governance. She highlighted the ongoing push to secure 74 additional seats for women in the Senate, House of Representatives, and State Houses of Assembly, describing it as a significant stride towards gender inclusion.
Earlier, Mrs. Ruth Kpengwa, who briefed the SSG, described NILOWV as a non-partisan, non-religious, and non-cultural organization committed to promoting women’s involvement in politics and leadership. She noted that Hon. Benjamin Kalu has introduced a bill before the National Assembly advocating for women’s inclusion in governance, which has already achieved 70% progress in the legislative process. Mrs. Kpengwa emphasized the need for strong female representation to ensure that women’s voices are heard. She also lauded Governor Hyacinth Alia for appointing a woman to such a high-level office.
Speaking during the visit, the National Representative, Mr. Charles Aneni, praised the SSG for hosting the NILOWV/NAWOJ delegation. He called on her to lead in mobilizing stakeholders for an upcoming town hall meeting in Benue State and requested that the event be held at the State Banquet Hall.
In her response, Mrs. Aber reaffirmed her support for the group’s mission and pledged to champion the cause of women in politics and leadership.
As a symbolic gesture of appreciation, the Benue State NILOWV officials presented her with the official uniform of the organization.
Signed
Veronica Azemba
For Head of Centre FIC Makurdi.
