June 12: Don urges NASS to revisit gender-related constitutional amendments, electoral reforms 
From Bashir Rabe Mani in Sokoto
Prof. Aisha Balarabe Bawa, Department of History and International Studies, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, has urged the National Assembly to honestly revisit gender-related constitutional amendments and electoral reforms.
“This is sequel to recognizing that inclusive governance is central to national unity and democratic consolidation.
“State governments, local councils, educational institutions, religious bodies, and civil society organizations must equally intensify advocacy for women’s empowerment and political participation,” she added.
Our Correspondent in Sokoto reports that Prof. Aisha Balarabe Bawa spoke on Thursday in Sokoto at the maiden Democracy Day Lecture and Book Presentation in honour of late Hajiya Tuni Margai, a prominent women activist, politician, business mogul and large-scale farmer.
Our Correspondent also reports that the lecturer was themed, ‘ Local Beats, Global Standards: Nigeria’s Gender Inclusion and Development Implications’.
The epochal lecture was organized by the Sokoto State University, with the partnerships of the Centre for Black and Arts and Civilization, Effective Governance Research Institute (EGRI) and the Productive Community for Sustainable Development Initiative (PCSDI).
According to the don, as Nigeria commemorates Democracy Day, it should serve as a call to action for government, policymakers and citizens alike.
Prof. Aisha Balarabe Bawa added, “The future of Nigeria’s democracy depends on the inclusiveness of its institutions.
“A nation that gives women a seat at the table is a nation that secures broader participation, deeper legitimacy, and sustainable progress.
“Therefore, the task before us is clear: to build a Nigeria where local democratic seats reflect democratic standards, and where gender inclusion becomes not an inspiration but a lived national reality.”
Also speaking, the Vice-Chancellor of the Sokoto State University, Prof. M. B. Yerima, underscored the myriad of roles women are playing in national development across Nigeria and the globe.
He said, “The time when women are relegated to the kitchen and the other room, I think is over.
“Women play key roles in politics, administration and management of organizations.
“I really have to concede that women of this generation are equal to the task. Women are also less corrupt, so, they should be given more opportunities.”
Also speaking, the Executive Director of
Productive Community for Sustainable Development Initiative (PCSDI), Nura Bello, said that the conference was designed to provide a platform for scholars, policymakers, development practitioners, civil society organizations, community leaders, and other stakeholders to engage in meaningful discussions on gender inclusion and its implications for sustainable development in Nigeria.
He said, “The event will explore strategies for promoting equitable representation, inclusive governance, and gender-responsive policies that align with global development standards while addressing local realities.
“It will contribute significantly to advancing dialogue and action toward a more inclusive and sustainable society.”
