A Non-Governmental Organisation, Brain Builders Youth Development Initiative (BBYDI) has advocated the inclusion of more women in political space, saying the feminine gender needs to occupy decision making positions “for balance”.
The NGO in a Press Statement sent to THE INFORMANT247 by its Director, Olasupo Abideen in commemoration of the 2021 International Women’s Day said despite COVID-19 pandemic ravaging the world, women have continued their exploits, citing Kamala Harris who emerged as the first female Vice President of the United States of America and the first female Director-General of the World Trade Organization Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala.
The statement read: “Sharing success stories of women will always be inspiring. The incredible work that women continue to put into the development of our communities has impacted many lives, and inspired many other women and girls to stand up to challenges they encounter daily.
“This year’s theme of the International Women’s Day is ‘Choose to Challenge’. In building an inclusive world that recognizes the contributions of women, we must call out gender bias and inequality while celebrating women’s achievements. This is a collective responsibility as we have seen the power of providing women with the platforms and enabling environment to thrive.
“At Brain Builders Youth Development Initiative, our commitment to the development of women took a leap in the past year. We leveraged women power in our major projects. Our Teens Speak Out event committee was chaired and coordinated by a woman. We ensured that women were adequately represented in our partnerships with KAIICID and the United Nations Development Program on curbing insecurity in North Central Nigeria.
“We also had an increase in women’s participation in our essay and oratory contests where women also emerged winners. Undoubtedly, the imbalance is tilting towards the path of equality but there is still a lot of work to do. The gender disparity that has shaped our societies for centuries still exists but we stand a chance to reach a balance where equal opportunities are available to everyone regardless of their gender, religion, race, ethnic affiliation, sexual orientation, etc.”