The Need for Women's Voices in Governance

It began with empty seats. But soon, the rotunda of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, meant for elite gatherings, was filled with a diverse crowd. The event was carefully planned and executed with a theme that resonated with the times.

The audience included ambassadors, top government officials, technocrats, experienced policymakers, security experts, women leaders, development specialists, civil society groups, young leaders, partners, and others connected to the key issues discussed.

Mrs Eugenia Abu, a well-known journalist and mentor, coordinated the event with her usual grace. She introduced guests and skillfully handled the discussions on the crucial issues at hand.

Politicians who often dominate such events seemed to be absent. A few who were invited sent representatives instead. This allowed for a focused conversation on important security and development topics, without politics getting in the way.

The summit was hosted by I Teach Africa, with the theme: Empowering Her for Governance: Advancing Women’s Leadership for Inclusive Governance and Security. It aimed to highlight the need for inclusive governance and the importance of women’s active participation in leadership, peace, security, and national development.

The event featured keynote speeches, panel discussions, and talks on strengthening inclusive governance and building secure communities. The discussions concluded with insights on critical security issues.

Mrs Ebi Elezieanya, the conference host, received a warm round of applause for her opening remarks. She pointed out that armed conflicts affect women and girls differently. She stressed the need for women to be involved in security decision-making and conflict prevention strategies.

She referenced international agreements, noting that women's involvement in security policies is not just a gender issue. It is essential because while security protects a nation, inclusion gives everyone a reason to defend it.

Two moving documentaries showed how terror impacts women and children. Many attendees wiped tears as they watched the visuals and listened to the powerful audio, which carried the message: The Woman’s Voice Must Be Heard.

Dr Otive Igbuzor delivered a passionate speech. He stated that national security is closely linked to sustainable stability, which cannot exist without inclusive governance. He emphasized that national security cannot be assured if women, youth, the disabled, the poor, and marginalized groups are left out of decision-making.

He added that inclusion is vital for development. It determines whose voice is heard and encompasses good governance, credible elections, and strong institutions.

His Majesty, Dr Ferdinand Ikwang, a respected security expert and advocate for peace in Niger Delta, participated in the panel discussion. He explained that discussions about national security must begin at the community level. He noted that ignoring past experiences has led to failures in Nigeria's security systems.

Chief Ndutime Alaibe shared insights from his experiences in the Niger Delta. He said people are more likely to protect a system in which they have a stake. He noted that Nigeria has often viewed the Niger Delta as a security problem, neglecting the underlying issues of development and belonging.

He concluded that inclusion is not just social policy; it is a national security policy. He stated that security cannot be only about military presence. True security involves justice, opportunity, and a sense of belonging among citizens.

He said that without these elements, security forces would constantly be managing the aftermath of violence. But when they are present, citizens can become active participants in stability.

He recalled how communities have seen wealth leave their areas, while they struggle with poor infrastructure and lack of basic services. Young people feel frustrated as they witness development without access to opportunities.

When violence occurs, the government often responds with military action. But, he questions if that is the real solution. He believes that while force can control violence, it cannot resolve the underlying grievances.

He pointed out that security operations are necessary but alone cannot address the root causes of issues. He emphasized the need for a more integrated approach that includes political, economic, and developmental inclusion.

He mentioned initiatives like the Niger Delta Regional Development Master Plan and the Presidential Amnesty Programme, aimed at fostering development and peace in the region. He also highlighted the Petroleum Industry Act, which recognizes the need for local communities to be part of development.

He noted that these initiatives, while imperfect, share a common goal: to integrate people into the economy. When communities are involved in protecting national assets, it enhances security and fosters stability.

He stressed that one major gap in the Niger Delta peace process is the lack of inclusion of women. Women have often faced the harshest impacts of conflict and environmental issues.

He reminded everyone that women have suffered losses, held families together during crises, and advocated for peace in their communities. Yet, they remain mostly excluded from formal peace negotiations.

He stated that women were not the ones who took up arms, so it is no surprise they are underrepresented in disarmament processes. He argued that we have defined peace too narrowly, overlooking those who bear the consequences of conflict.

He highlighted that women make up about half of Nigeria's population, yet hold only about four percent of National Assembly seats. Nigeria has yet to elect a woman as Governor in any state.

He said this is not just a women’s issue but affects national capacity and democracy. A country cannot secure itself while ignoring the contributions of half its population.

He quoted the Bible, referencing Galatians 3:28, stating that everyone is equal in Christ. He urged that women should not only be seen as victims but recognized as key players in security.

He called for women's inclusion in economic, political, and security sectors, suggesting that women-led organizations should be part of local security dialogues.

He believes that women in rural areas can contribute significantly to national security, just as much as analysts in command centers. Nigeria's security framework needs to connect these two.

He concluded with a powerful message that resonated with everyone present. He said every group at the summit has a role to play. The government must make gender-responsive budgeting a priority.

He urged the National Assembly to ensure women’s representation is a priority. He encouraged security agencies to go beyond mere recruitment numbers and create pathways for women in leadership roles.

He asked industry leaders to apply the Nigerian Content principles to enhance women’s participation in various sectors. Finally, he called on development partners to measure what works because inclusion without accountability is mere talk.

He summarized that when people receive justice, they build trust in the system. When they have opportunities, they engage with the system. And when they feel they belong, they defend the system.

In the end, a truly secure Nigeria is not only about having strong security forces. It is about making sure that all citizens feel they belong to the country and that the country belongs to them.

Participants left the summit wondering if the government would listen and act on the valuable suggestions given by experts on development, national security, and inclusion.