Hon. Dr. Comforter Adeniyi-Olajide, Member representing Ibadan North Constituency I in the Oyo State House of Assembly, delivered a compelling keynote address yesterday at the Aare Afe Babalola Bar Centre, Opposite NTC Road, Iyaganku, Ibadan, during a State-Level Advocacy/Town Hall Meeting focused on women’s political inclusion and constitutional reform.
In her address, Hon. Comforter voiced strong support for the Reserved Seat Bill for Women in Nigeria, stressing the critical need for inclusive leadership that ensures equitable representation for women. She noted that, despite women’s consistent contributions to national development, they remain marginalized in governance and decision-making processes.
She expressed deep appreciation to the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), Oyo State Chapter and FIDA Nigeria, for organizing the impactful engagement, and extended gratitude to the UN Women for their support and advocacy for gender equality in Nigeria.
Hon. Comforter also commended His Excellency, Engr. Seyi Makinde, FNSE, the Executive Governor of Oyo State, for championing women’s participation in governance through inclusive appointments and support for elective opportunities. She called on other state governors to emulate his example in promoting gender equity.
Highlighting the need for intentional action to dismantle systemic barriers, she reminded all stakeholders that women’s political empowerment is a right, not a favour, and a strategic imperative for sustainable national progress.
She concluded by urging fellow legislators, policymakers, and civil society actors to unite in support of inclusive governance, noting that “no nation can truly thrive when half of its population is kept away from the decision-making table”
