UN Raises Concern Over Declining Women Participation in 2023 Elections

• The United Nations expresses concern over the declining participation of women in Nigerian politics during the 2023 general elections
• UN Women representative Goremmurs Zephaniah urges women to challenge the status quo, citing a retrogression in women’s political involvement

The United Nations has labelled the diminishing involvement of women in Nigerian politics and governance during the recent 2023 general elections as a “worrying trend.” The data collected suggests a regression in women’s participation, both nationally and at the state level, prompting the UN to urge women to challenge the status quo and maintain their resilience.

Goremmurs Zephaniah, the representative of UN Women, conveyed this concern during the inauguration of the new executive council for the League of Women Voters of Nigeria (NILOWV) in Abuja over the weekend. Zephaniah disclosed, “Data from the 2023 elections reveals a retrogression in women’s participation in politics.

At the national level, the percentage stands at four, while at the state level, it’s at 5.44 percent. This should not deter your spirits; stand strong and collaborate to overcome it.”

Irene Ikyegh, the President of NILOWV, echoed the sentiments, expressing apprehension about the low involvement of women in politics. She called for urgent measures to address the challenge and emphasized the need for collective action to enhance women’s active participation in the political landscape.

The UN’s alert comes as a call to action for Nigerian women to mobilize, collaborate, and challenge the existing barriers, ensuring a more inclusive political environment for future elections.

Tinubu appoints new board, management team for NNPCL

President Bola Tinubu has approved the appointment of a new board and management team for the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) with effect from December 1, 2023:

The names:

Chief Pius Akinyelure — Non-Executive Board Chairman

Mallam Mele Kolo Kyari — Group Chief Executive Officer

Alhaji Umar Isa Ajiya — Chief Financial Officer

Mr Ledum Mitee — Non-Executive Director

Mr Musa Tumsa — Non-Executive Director

Mr Ghali Muhammad — Non-Executive Director

Prof. Mustapha Aliyu — Non-Executive Director

Mr David Ogbodo — Non-Executive Director

Ms Eunice Thomas — Non-Executive Director