YIAGA Africa organizes capacity building training to mainstream more youth and women into governance

There has been a significant international emphasis on ensuring more equitable representation of men and women in democratic institutions, with many countries instituting quotas for women.

In Nigeria, a national gender policy has been developed to promote 35% affirmative action for women, as well as 35% participation of women in all governance processes.

Self-identification, right values, integrity, and commitment to the overall goals of attaining the growth and development of society are some of the qualities expected of leaders that can bring about the desired change in Nigeria

This formed the areas of focus of the capacity-building training conducted by YIAGA Africa.

Participants comprised over forty female community organizers, civic activists, and members of political parties in Sokoto who are expected to shape policy and move for more youth and female inclusion in governance

One of the main issues causing Nigeria’s poor development rate has been highlighted as leadership.

Nigerians attribute this to years of military interference in civil rule, which helped pave the way for decades of executive control, which encouraged corruption, weak governance, and improper resource accountability.

The dissatisfaction felt by citizens with structures and approaches of leadership in the country has majorly driven the agitations for more inclusion of women and youth in governance.

Though, cultural barriers especially in northern Nigeria have limited women’s participation in governance.

To promote good leadership and increase participation of women and youth in governance, YIAGA Africa has organized a four-day training to engage young female community organizers, civic activists, and members of political parties in Sokoto state

This is to build their capacity to carry out advocacy campaigns that will shape and push policies that will engender good governance and development in their society

Participants believe that the training will assist them in developing a team of young women who will lead a change that will recognize the role of women in leadership in all spheres of life in Sokoto and across the country.