Abuja (Core Reporters) Professor Funmi Para-Mallam (mni), the Director of studies, National institute for policy and strategic studies has called for a woman-friendly constitution to address systemic challenges and Initiatives to support Nigerian women in governance.
She made the demand on Tuesday in Abuja during the international legislative dialogue on women and constitution amendment organised by the Policy and legislative advocacy center in collaboration with the European Union and the House of representatives.
In a chat with Core Reporters, she heaps praises on the initiators of the international legislative dialogue on Women and constitution amendments in Nigeria. She also, calles for more capacity-building through the Gender and Public Policy Center.
According to her, “constitutional amendments alone are insufficient due to deeply ingrained cultural and religious practices that undermine female leadership.
“We nees more of capacity-building through the Gender and Public Policy Center, mentorship, and addressing violence against women as forms of systemic oppression. There should be a deliberate need for long-term cultural reconditioning to empower women and encourage their political involvement,” she said.
Speaking on the challenges in mainstreaming women in politics, she acknowledged the limitations of constitutional amendments alone, citing discriminatory provisions in the current constitution.
“Section 26, which restricts women from conferring citizenship on their husbands, and Section 29, which deems a married girl an adult,”
On her own, prof Para-Mallam , said she established a Gender and Public Policy Center at the National Institute, which she sponsored to build the capacity of women and gender champions, stressing that the Center aims to strengthen women’s abilities in governance, development, peace, and security through capacity-building programs.
“As a gender justice activist, I run a shelter and a movement in Plateau State to rescue and rehabilitate women and girls victims of violence.
“ I also mentor many women, conducts mentorship schemes, and motivates women to see their potential and possibilities in leadership roles”.
Funmi reiterates her personal commitment to mentoring and encouraging women, using her own success as an example, She emphasized the importance of showing women that they can achieve their goals despite social and cultural conditioning.
Reaffirming her dedication to promoting women’s rights and leadership, She expressed strong optimism at the programs and described it as an ongoing journey towards gender equality in Nigeria.
