The League of Women Voters of Nigeria (NILOWV) has honored notable Nigerians for championing gender inclusion, supporting the reserved seat bill, and promoting women’s political participation across the country.
Speaking at a dinner and award night in Abuja, Mrs. Irene Awuna-Ikyegh, President of NILOWV, said the awards recognized individuals who have consistently supported women’s empowerment and inclusivity in governance.
She said the event also aimed to encourage more advocates to push for the passage of the reserved seat bill, which seeks to enhance women’s representation in elective and appointive positions.
Among the awardees were Yahaya Abubakar, the Etsu Nupe; Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, Minister of Women Affairs; Gov. AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State; Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas; Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Kalu; Rep. Blessing Amadi; and Yusuf Dantalle, National Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council of Nigeria (IPAC).
Awuna-Ikyegh also announced the unveiling of the Esther Udehi Award of Excellence, to be presented annually to outstanding Nigerian women for their passion and commitment to gender equality, empowerment, and political inclusion.
“Today will go down in history as a moment that shows Nigerian women appreciate their own and recognize the efforts of those who stood firm in supporting them,” she said.
Dr. Esther Udehi, Founder of NILOWV, expressed concern over women’s low political representation and stressed the importance of sustained advocacy for the passage of the reserved seat bill to ensure inclusivity in governance.
Udehi commended supporters of the initiative and urged Nigerians to remain committed to achieving equitable representation, noting that women’s empowerment is critical to national development.
Yahaya Abubakar, the Etsu Nupe, who was conferred the title “Ambassador of Nigerian Women and Champion of Diversity and Inclusion,” highlighted the critical role women play in nation-building.
Abubakar, who also chairs the Coordinating Committee of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria (NTRCN), reaffirmed the commitment of traditional leaders to supporting gender equality and the passage of the bill.
“I believe that whatever you can achieve at your level, you can do even better at the national level. Continue with the struggle; we will continue to stand by you,” he said.
Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, represented by her Special Adviser and Director of Administration, Mrs. Ola Erinfolami, said the bill would promote equity and inclusion in governance.
Also speaking, Yusuf Dantalle, National Chairman of IPAC, urged women to believe in themselves and support one another to achieve success.
“The struggle for women’s inclusion was once led by women, but today, men have joined because they believe women must take the driver’s seat in the political and economic development of this country.
“You must first believe in yourselves. No man can win an election without women. Support and vote for yourselves, irrespective of political affiliation,” he said.
