By Bashir Hassan Abubakar
The Bauchi State Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, Hon. Hajara Yakubu Wanka, has called for renewed efforts to dismantle the social and cultural barriers hindering the active participation of women in politics and governance in Northern Nigeria.
She made the call while speaking as a guest at a virtual meeting organized by the Network of Women for Sustainable Development (NEWSd), a women-led civil society organisation promoting gender equity and inclusive leadership across Nigeria.
Hon. Wanka, who shared highlights of the engagement on her verified Facebook page, said that women possess the strength, empathy, and vision necessary to drive positive change, yet continue to face challenges stemming from long-standing societal perceptions and stereotypes.
“In Northern Nigeria, women in politics continue to face barriers rooted in cultural and religious perceptions. Many still believe that leadership is reserved for men, and this misconception limits women’s participation in decision-making processes,” she stated.
She stressed that empowerment begins when women use their voices, talents, and platforms to create meaningful change, noting that leadership should be redefined through service, accountability, and sustainability rather than the mere pursuit of positions.
According to the Commissioner, mentoring young girls to develop confidence and political awareness is key to breaking the cycle of exclusion.
“We must actively mentor and encourage our younger girls to join politics and governance, showing them that their voices matter and that they have a rightful place in leadership,” Wanka emphasized.
The Bauchi Commissioner also commended NEWSd for providing a platform such as “The Potential Sand,” which she described as a space for women across the country—including those from the 20 local government areas of Bauchi State and the North Central region—to connect, collaborate, and inspire one another.
She urged women to rise above fear, silence, and societal pressure, stressing that true empowerment is built through unity, mentorship, and collective determination.
“We must rise above the stigmas and limitations society places upon us and learn to encourage and uplift one another. Through unity, mentorship, and determination, we can build a generation of women who are not only participants but changemakers—women who think beyond boundaries and lead with purpose for a sustainable and inclusive future,” she concluded.
The virtual session brought together women advocates, policymakers, and civil society leaders who discussed strategies to enhance gender inclusion and promote women’s leadership at all levels of governance.
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