Abike Dabiri-Erewa, the NiDCOM Chair, calls for stronger support for Nigerian women in politics, citing a drastic reduction in their representation. She highlights the challenges posed by economic constraints, cultural biases, and security issues. Additionally, the importance of the diaspora in national development and the urgent need to combat human trafficking are emphasized. Dabiri-Erewa insists that sustained efforts are necessary to remove barriers preventing women’s leadership participation.
The Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, advocates for practical and intentional support for women in politics. She raised concerns regarding the decreasing representation of women, noting significant barriers related to economic, cultural, and security issues that discourage female participation in leadership roles.
Dabiri-Erewa expressed disappointment over the decline in women legislators in Nigeria, stating that the number of women in the National Assembly has plummeted from 27 to nine in the House of Representatives and four in the Senate. She emphasized, “It’s a shame that our numbers have fallen so drastically. Political parties must be intentional about supporting qualified women.”
She further noted that increasing election costs and violence exacerbate challenges for women in seeking political office. She said, “Money is a major problem, and the process is becoming more violent. If political parties commit to reserving certain seats for qualified women, we will see positive change.”
Cultural biases were also highlighted as a major impediment. Dabiri-Erewa recounted discriminatory remarks against women’s leadership capabilities and insisted that, “These outdated beliefs must change.” She called upon women to embrace confidence and assertiveness in their pursuit of leadership roles, underscoring the importance of demonstrating competence in governance.
Balancing career ambitions with family duties is crucial, as Dabiri-Erewa stated, “No matter what, we are still mothers. We must raise our children while pursuing our careers.”
In her role with NiDCOM, she noted significant advancements made in the last five years, particularly through enhancing engagement with the Nigerian diaspora. “We have put diaspora issues on the front burner. Today, everyone is talking about the diaspora and its importance to national development,” she said, referencing various initiatives designed to promote collaboration and investment.
Highlighting the economic contributions of Nigerians abroad, she reported that remittances exceed $90 billion, advocating for the diaspora’s role as a pivotal investment force: “Beyond sending money home, we want the diaspora to become a critical investment force.”
Dabiri-Erewa also drew attention to the alarming issue of human trafficking affecting Nigerian women, particularly in countries like Iraq and Libya. “Over 5,000 Nigerian women are stranded in Iraq, many of them facing inhumane conditions. We receive distress calls daily,” she stated, calling for decisive action against traffickers.
She stressed the necessity of treating Nigerians, including deportees, with dignity. “Migration is not a crime. Many Nigerians travel in search of a better life, and even if they are deported, they should be treated with dignity and respect.”
Dabiri-Erewa remains hopeful regarding the advancement of Nigerian women in leadership and the diaspora’s involvement in national progress, insisting on the need to dismantle systemic barriers to equality and protection from exploitation.
In summary, Abike Dabiri-Erewa advocates for enhanced political and economic support for Nigerian women, citing alarming trends in representation and participation. She underscores the need for intentional measures by political parties to support qualified women, alongside addressing economic and cultural barriers. The diaspora’s role as a significant economic contributor is highlighted, alongside urgent calls for greater action against human trafficking and the respectful treatment of migrants. Overall, the emphasis lies on empowering women and fostering a conducive environment for their leadership growth.
Original Source: businessday.ng
