By Justina Auta
The National Centre for Women Development (NCWD), on Tuesday, identified gender gaps across various sectors of economy, political power and decision making in Osun and Gombe states.
The Director-General of the centre, Dr Asabe Vilita-Bashir, said this at the presentation of the report and unveiling of an inspirational book — “Growing Right” as part of activities to mark the 2022 International Day of the Girl-child in Abuja.
Vilita-Bashir, represented by Mr Emmanuel Onilearo, the centre’s Director of Planning, Research and Statistics, said the report would push for interventions to bridge the gender gaps and protect women’ rights.
She added that “a wide gender gap exists in political power and decision making processes in Osun and Gombe states.
“Women hold less than 15 per cent of elective positions in national parliament, State Assembly, state executive positions and appointive offices.”
According to her, women in the two states also face economic marginalisation, poor access to finance, among others.
The NCWD boss, therefore, recommended that the state government’s policies should be reviewed to incorporate gender issues.
She also stressed the need to build the capacity of line ministries and CSOs to mainstream gender in all the state sectors and the implementation of all affirmative action.
“Advocate and engage SMEDAN and other financial institutions to create awareness on financial opportunities and adopt an intersectional approach to ensure the marginalised were not left behind,”she said.
Vilita-Bashir also called for more advocacies on the effects of harmful traditional practices, encourage the adoption of Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) courses for girls.
She also recommended that legislations should push government and enterprise into taking affirmative action and adopt social inclusion policy.
She, further said the book, “Growing Right” produced by a team in the centre was part of their contribution to advance the girl-child and to inspire them to seek for their rights.
“The book aim to influence and nurture the Nigerian child to activate their potentials to overcome challenges in their pathway to growing right and achieving a promising future,” she said.
Ms Zara Mustapha Abdullahi, student of Sheikh Abubakar Gumi Academy, stressed the need to address challenges affecting the girl-child.
Ms Divine Eshiemogie, student of Model Secondary School, Maitama, Abuja, appealed to government and stakeholders to ensure conducive environment for the girl-child to explore her potential.
Other highlights of the day were the distribution of educational materials, bags, donation of iPads and money to some students who emerged victorious after debate.
