Abuja:Prof. Abubakar Sulaiman, Director-General of the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS), has called for enhanced participation of women in Nigeria’s decision-making processes to reinforce democracy across the nation.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Sulaiman made this appeal in Abuja during the League of Women Voters of Nigeria (NILOWV) tree-planting exercise, which marked its 30th anniversary under the theme ’30 Trees for 30 Years.’
Sulaiman emphasized that democracy in Nigeria is firmly established and requires collective commitment and dedication to nurture and consolidate democratic governance for future generations. He highlighted the legislature’s critical role in this process, indicating that the event’s choice of venue underscores this importance.
The tree-planting exercise was described by Sulaiman as a long-term investment in Nigeria’s democratic future, symbolizing sustainability and commitment to nurturing democratic institutions. He likened nurturing the trees to nurturing democracy, expressing hope for increased participation of Nigerian women in governance and decision-making.
He commended NILOWV for promoting democratic values through the tree-planting initiative, which he described as planting the seed of democracy for future generations. Sulaiman expressed the hope that this symbolic act would inspire greater participation in elections and decision-making processes, ultimately leading to a stronger role for women in Nigeria’s democracy.
Mrs. Irene Ikyegh, National President of NILOWV, stated that the initiative aims to leave a lasting legacy as the organization celebrates 30 years of promoting women’s leadership and democracy. She explained that the group plans to plant 30 trees across key national institutions to promote environmental sustainability and democracy.
Ikyegh urged Nigerians to nurture the planted trees, symbolizing hope, service, and collective responsibility towards building a better nation with sustainable development and inclusive governance.