FIC Report (Edo State) – In a meaningful celebration of International Women’s Day, Mrs. Edesili Okpbeholo Anani, the Coordinator of the First Lady’s office in Edo State, organized an event aimed at promoting women’s active involvement in politics held on March 28. 2025 in Benin City. This year’s theme, “Accelerating Action: Enhancing Women Participation in Politics,” served as a focal point for discussions throughout the gathering.
Mrs. Anani highlighted the significance of having women in political roles as essential for a vibrant democracy. She referenced studies indicating that greater female representation in policy making leads to improved outcomes and urged women to initiate their political journeys at the grassroots level, encouraging them to take leadership roles and positively influence their communities.
The keynote speaker Dr. Amen Ogbemudia Uhunmwangho, a prominent figure in Public Health and Social Advocacy delivered a compelling address that aimed at promoting women’s active engagement in politics.
In front of a packed audience, Dr Amen underscored the vital role of women in decision-making positions and also in shaping policies that should affect their lives and Communities. “Despite the undeniable contributions women make across various sectors, we still see a significant gender gap in political representation,” she stated. “It is essential that we empower our women, not just to participate, but to take on Leadership roles in Governance.”
In her submission, Maria Edeko, Deputy Speaker of the Edo House of Assembly, encouraged women to dedicate time to politics and assert their rights actively. However, Chief Barrister Olabisi Idaomi, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, empowered attendees by calling for women to engage boldly in politics across all spheres of life.
Mrs. Adesuwa Ehimuan, Chairperson of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, underscored the ongoing challenges that hinder women’s political representation, including entrenched societal norms, violence, and stereotypes. “To counter these issues, we need legislation aimed at preventing violence, investing in women’s leadership training, and promoting equal opportunities in political participation,” she asserted.
She further stated, “We must confront patriarchal norms and stereotypes to build a society where women’s voices hold equal weight in politics. A world where women can lead, engage, and flourish is achievable, and the time to act is now.”
In addition, Mrs. Irene Akedeno, President of the Medical Women Association of Nigeria, underscored the critical link between women’s health and their political engagement. She stressed the need for women to take charge of their health, including preventive cancer screenings and monitoring conditions like hypertension. “Being healthy is essential; a healthy mother contributes to a healthy nation, and ultimately, a productive country. As we strive to enhance women’s roles, let us prioritize healthy living practices,” she emphasized.
The forum featured a series of Panel discussions, Award presentations, and the audience which featured Women from various Professional Organizations, aimed at equipping women with the skills and knowledge necessary for political engagement.
The audience which included The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists NAWOJ, Medical Women Association of Nigeria MWAN, Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria, FIDA Edo State, League of Women Voters of Nigeria (NILOWV), and StandUp For Women Society, Edo State.
The event marks a significant step towards greater female representation in Edo State politics, with organizers hopeful that it will inspire a new generation of women leaders ready to take their place in governance.
Signed
Egwaoje Amara chi Linda
FIC, Benin City
March 30, 2025
