Hon. Simeon Olu Okeowo has called for greater women inclusivity and gender equality in governance and politics. He made this known while delivering his keynote speech in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, to an audience of wives of government officials, chairmen and vice chairmen across the state.
Hon. Okeowo highlighted the challenges facing women, despite their core value to a peaceful society, democratic process, voting, and community development. Some of the difficulties and challenges he raised include: Financial constraints, bullying, societal and cultural beliefs,
discrimination and bias and negative media portrayals, which frequently reinforce negative stereotypes about women in leadership positions.
He noted that Nigerians might have lost trust in women holding political positions due to mismanagement of funds witnessed in recent years. However, he emphasized that men are equally guilty of this offense, which should also be condemned.
Hon. Okeowo stated that policies and structural support within political organizations, such as harassment, intimidation, and threats, often deter women from pursuing or continuing political careers.
He opined that Nigeria should embrace authenticity and take a cue from the productivity and transformation of women like: Jacinda Ardern, former Prime Minister of New Zealand, known for her authentic leadership style and confidence in addressing complex issue, Angela Merkel, former Chancellor of German, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, former President of Liberia, Okonjo Iweala, former Nigeria Minister of Finance and Michelle Obama, former First Lady of the United States.
These women have continuously sought personal and professional growth through education, charity, and public service experience, contributing immensely to humanity’s development worldwide.
