INEC: Women’s Participation Is Key to Nigeria’s Democratic Future
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has emphasized that the future of democracy in Nigeria depends on the full participation and empowerment of women in the electoral process.
In a statement marking International Women’s Day, Victoria Eta-Messi, INEC’s Director of Voter Education and Publicity, reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to fostering gender equality in all aspects of its work. She noted that INEC is dedicated to breaking down barriers preventing women from active political involvement, including societal biases, lack of support systems and gender-based violence.
The electoral body urged Nigerians to champion gender equality not just in elections but across all sectors, stressing that when women are empowered to lead, governance becomes more inclusive and democracy is strengthened.
INEC also revealed ongoing efforts to increase female representation at all levels of the electoral process, from candidates and voters to election administrators and party representatives.
“Today, as the Commission celebrates the International Women’s Day, it reaffirms its commitment to gender equality and the empowerment of women in Nigeria’s electoral process,” the statement read.
The commission acknowledged the progress made in ensuring female inclusion within its leadership, noting that two of its 12 National Commissioners are women, making up 16.7% of the leadership structure. Additionally, the INEC Secretary, a crucial role overseeing the commission’s operations, is held by a woman, while four of the 32 Resident Electoral Commissioners (12.5%) are also female.
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While recognizing these milestones, INEC admitted that more work is needed to achieve gender balance in decision-making roles.
“As the theme for the 2025 International Women’s Day is ‘Accelerate Action,’ INEC recognizes that gender equality is not only a matter of fairness, but also a critical pillar in strengthening democracy. A leadership that reflects gender balance, where women equally participate in decision-making, leads to more inclusive and responsive governance,” the statement added.
INEC reiterated its commitment to policies that encourage greater female participation in elections and leadership, stressing that gender equality remains a top priority in its mission to strengthen Nigeria’s democracy.
