The Ondo State Governor Dr Lucky Aiyedatiwa has called on political stakeholders in country to allow for inclusion of more women in political and elective positions, Peak Newspaper reports.
The governor described women as an important element in nation development, saying his administration had been operating an all gender inclusive government.
Aiyedatiwa made this call at the launch of the 774 Explode Project in Akure, the Ondo State capital on Wednesday.
The initiative was said to have been initiated by National Women Leader of the All Progressives Congress to empower women.
Represented by his deputy, Dr Olayide Adelami, the governor said all hands must be on deck to ensure the greater participation of women in politics.
He said, “Women are very critical to the uplifting and development of any society. They are the unseen architects of society. Women nurture families, preserve values, sustain local economies, resolve conflicts and shape future generations. Increasingly, they are also transforming public administration, entrepreneurship, technology, education, agriculture and governance. These remind us that leadership is not a function of gender but of competence, character, vision and service.
“We must be proud of the appreciable progress we have recorded in this direction, yet we honestly admit that significant gaps still exist. We, therefore, like to advocate for intentional and greater inclusion of women in elective offices, leadership positions and strategic decision making structures.
“Not any more should cultural stereotypes, economic barriers and systemic limitations be allowed to impede the realisation of their full potential. We ask not for sympathy in this noble cause but demand a well-orchestrated and deliberate action. We must be unrelenting in this advocacy that aligns with initiatives such as Project 774 Explode.”
