By Ekuson Nw’Ogbunka Abuja
The African Mothers Initiative (AMI) has organized the All-Women Interstate Debate, themed “Promoting the Intellectual Capacity of Women for Better Political Participation.” The event, held recently at the Maryam Babangida National Centre for Women Development, Abuja, brought together women from across the country to discuss and advocate for increased representation in politics.
The debate aimed to demonstrate the intellectual competence and readiness of Nigerian women to engage in leadership roles, while preparing for the implementation of the Reserved Seats Bill (HB 1349). The bill seeks to reserve seats for women in both National and State Assemblies.
AMI President and Founder, Mrs. Margaret Mkpanam, emphasized the organization’s commitment to promoting women’s inclusion in politics and governance. “We intend to discover, promote, and advocate for the inclusion of female leaders into political offices after observing their strength at the All-Women Interstate Debate,” she stated.
The debate featured four topics, including the representation of women in parliament, the impact of political party affiliations on women’s participation in politics, the role of women in family building and societal development, and the accountability of governors’ spouses and state executive council members in governance.
The participants made key observations and requests, including the need for accountability in governance, budgetary support for first ladies’ offices, and the urgent passage of the Reserved Seats Bill. They also called for policies that consider the family well-being of public servants and the inclusion of AMI’s grassroots and national platforms in the Renewed Hope Women Empowerment Fund.
The debate concluded with a call for increased representation of women in politics and governance, and AMI’s commitment to raising a generation of women leaders with moral excellence, respect for motherhood, emotional intelligence, and unwavering loyalty to national development.
AMI’s efforts are geared towards promoting gender-inclusive governance and empowering women to take on leadership roles. The organization’s flagship programs, including the AMI Reality TV Show, All-Women Interstate Debate, and “December for the Woman” Happiness Show, are designed to promote women’s intellectual capacity and leadership skills.
The debate was attended by prominent figures, including Her Excellency Bishop Dr. (Mrs) Eyoanwan Itam Bassey Edet Otu, National President, African Mothers Initiative, and High Chief Emmanuel Ironbar (PhD), Chief of Staff to the Governor, Cross River State.
The event was supported by key stakeholders, including the Office of the First Lady of Cross River State, Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, National Council of Women Societies (NCWS), and UN Women.
AMI remains committed to national development through advocacy, empowerment, and mentorship. The organization seeks to contribute to a more gender-inclusive society by advocating for women’s recognition and consideration in leadership positions.
By showcasing women’s intellectual capacity, the debate aims to pave the way for more women to occupy political offices, ultimately promoting a more balanced and representative governance structure. With the support of its partners and stakeholders, AMI is poised to make a significant impact in promoting women’s leadership and empowerment in Nigeria.
The Reserved Seats Bill is a critical instrument for achieving gender parity in Nigeria’s legislative institutions. AMI supports its full implementation and believes it will unlock meaningful political participation for women.
As part of its efforts, AMI will continue to facilitate intellectual training for women nationwide to build political confidence, conduct skills acquisition and empowerment programs in underserved areas, and expand its Reality TV Show and nationwide mentorship in schools.
By working together, AMI and its partners can create a more inclusive and representative governance structure that empowers women to take on leadership roles and contribute to national development.
