In a groundbreaking initiative, the Women in Politics Forum (WIPF), in collaboration with UN Women and the Canadian government, organized a 3-day intensive training for young women in politics in Kaduna, Nigeria.
The training, which took place from July 23-25, aimed to increase the participation of women in politics and strengthen their capacity to take on leadership roles.
The Young Women in Politics Academy is an initiative by WIPF, focusing on building the capacity of young women aged 18-35 interested in politics. The goal is to increase women’s participation and strengthen their capacity in politics, “Raising a critical mass of young women to change the political narrative”.
Bar. Ebere Ifendu, Founder of WIPF, in her Opening Remarks, stated that “six women came together to set up the forum in 2011”, which was fully registered in 2014. The forum first mentored 600 women and has been doing a lot towards mentoring young women.
Madam Ashley Chundung Dauda, Representative of UN Women, emphasized the UN’s commitment to achieving SDG5, focusing on education, peace, security, and gender-based violence.
The training was interactive with Dr. Lydia Umar, who was the first Mentor, she led an interactive session on women’s political perspective, understanding politics and leadership from precolonial to post-colonial era.
A Former Commissioner to the Kaduna State Government Hajia Hafsat Baba, urged participants to listen carefully and learn, emphasizing the importance of creating space for oneself and being determined.
Mrs. Charity Anata highlighted politics as a game of numbers, stressing the need to go to the grassroots to support women and to always have women at heart.
Training Highlights includes, Etiquette and media usage, Advantage and disadvantage of new and traditional media, mentoring, Public speaking skills, How to join politics and run a successful campaign.
The training culminated in an in-house election, where participants campaigned for various seats, launching the Young Women in Politics Kaduna State Chapter and creating a cabinet to propel the organization forward.
Hajia Daharatu Ahmed, Public Relations Officer of WIPF and Secretary General of NAWOJ, emphasized the organization’s vision of a society where women have equal rights. She charged participants to be fearless, avoid creating enemies, and focus on service to humanity.
The training successfully empowered young women to advance their political careers, offering supporting mentorship and a network for future growth
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Participants and invited guests expressed satisfaction with the exercise, marking a vital step towards achieving a Nigerian society where women have equal rights in social, economic, and political spheres.
Special thanx goes to Mrs Winnie, Mrs Charity Chikas, Ms Faith and Ms. Tong who all helped with the learning process.
COV/ Fadila Yunusa
