ABUJA, Nigeria—Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting greater participation and representation for women in the country’s political landscape. The pledge was made during a visit by a women’s advocacy group to the INEC headquarters in Abuja.
Speaking on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, to the Women’s Collective Forum, INEC Chairman Professor Mahmood Yakubu highlighted the significance of their visit, which coincided with the United Nations’ International Day of Democracy. The theme for this year’s observance is “Achieving Gender Equality: From Voice to Action.”
Professor Yakubu noted that INEC itself is an “equal opportunities organisation,” with women heading 55% of the commission’s departments at its headquarters. He stated that INEC has a gender policy and a dedicated Department of Gender and Inclusivity to promote access for under-represented groups in the electoral process.
The Chairman also expressed the commission’s belief that legislative changes, such as amending the constitution and the Electoral Act, are the most effective way to ensure greater representation for women in political offices. He added that INEC had supported such amendments during a retreat with lawmakers earlier this year.
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