Efforts to enact laws for the inclusion of vulnerable groups—particularly women, poor men, and Persons With Disabilities (PWDs)—gained momentum during a two-day workshop in Lagos.
The Co-Creation Workshop focused on the State Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Bill, bringing together lawmakers and civil society organizations.
Led by the Women Advocates Research and Documentation Centre (WARDC), the event emphasized legislative engagement in advancing inclusivity.
Organized by WARDC in collaboration with the Bauchi State Government, Women in Politics Forum (WIPF), the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies, and donor agencies such as Canada and UN Women, the workshop aimed to foster policies that enhance representation and equal opportunities.
The former chairman of the Conference of Speakers and current Speaker of the Bauchi State House of Assembly,
Rt. Hon. Abubakar Suleiman noted that despite Nigeria’s rich cultural diversity, many individuals and communities continue to face systemic discrimination, exclusion, and marginalisation.
He stated that the proposed bill would promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in governance, emphasising that these principles are essential for building a just and prosperous society.
Suleiman highlighted that women, persons with disabilities, and marginalised youth are particularly affected by these issues.
He added that the passage of the State Equity Bill would signify a new era of governance in Bauchi State, prioritising justice, fairness, and inclusion.
He called on all stakeholders, including civil society organisations, development partners, and citizens, to collaborate for the successful adoption and passage of the bill.
Rt. Hon. Mojisola Meranda, Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, also advocated for laws that promote the inclusion of women and marginalised individuals in politics.
During her welcome address, she stressed the importance of creating a transformative State Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Bill that addresses systemic inequalities and promotes fairness, justice, and inclusivity.
Meranda emphasised the need for a co-created bill that incorporates the voices of marginalised communities and integrates their perspectives into the legislative process.
She also highlighted the importance of effective implementation, adequate funding, and continuous monitoring to ensure that the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion are fully realised.
Meranda pointed out that gender inequality remains a pressing issue, citing the World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Report 2024, which ranks Nigeria 125th out of 146 countries in gender parity—especially in economic participation and political empowerment. This ranking underscores the urgency for legislative intervention and policy transformation.
“This bill embodies the spirit of fairness, justice, and inclusivity, ensuring that every Nigerian, regardless of gender, economic status, or physical ability, has the opportunity to thrive,” she said.
“This gathering represents a significant milestone in our collective journey toward fostering a more just, equitable, and inclusive governance structure across all states of the federation.”
“We are not here to impose generic solutions but to co-create a context-specific bill tailored to the realities of Nigeria and our respective states.”
The Lagos State Government has made significant strides in promoting inclusion and diversity for women and vulnerable groups through targeted policies and programs. Initiatives like the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund, LSETF, have provided vocational training and financial support for women, youth, and persons with disabilities, empowering them to participate in the economy.
The Speaker urged participants to engage meaningfully in the discussions and to take concrete steps toward implementing actionable strategies, while also raising public awareness about the importance of inclusivity and equity.
Dr. Abiola Akiyode-Afolabi, founder of WARDC, stated that the event would build knowledge and share best practices for adoption and scaling up, as well as enhance coordination between civil society groups and legislators on bills that contribute to development and growth.
Other speakers at the workshop included Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye from Ekiti State, Hon. Abubakar Luggrewo from Gombe State, Hon. Haruna Dangyatin from Jigawa State, Hon. Moses Odunwa from Ebonyi State, Hon. Buba Chiroma-Mashio from Yobe State, and the Deputy Speaker of Kaduna State, Hon. Yusuf Dahiru.
