The Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has been recognized with a prestigious lifetime achievement award for his groundbreaking gender inclusion policies. This momentous occasion has garnered praise from prominent women leaders across Africa who have hailed his remarkable achievements.
The Governor’s advocacy for gender equality was further highlighted during the 7th Voice of Women (VOW) Conference and Awards held in Abuja, where he received a plaque in recognition of his exceptional commitment to women’s empowerment. This includes appointing a record number of women to key leadership positions, leading to the highest number of women serving in the cabinet in Nigeria’s history.
The Women Radio 91.7fm, which presented the award, described Governor AbdulRazaq as a trailblazer in gender inclusion within the Nigerian context. The event was graced by notable personalities such as First Ladies from various states, female federal and state parliamentarians, ministers from across the continent, and numerous gender rights activists.
Among those in attendance was the First Lady of Kwara State and Chairperson of the Governors Wives’ Forum, Ambassador Mrs. Olufolake AbdulRazaq, who led a delegation of Governors’ wives to the event. Dr. Jamila Bio, the Minister of Youth, also took the opportunity to acknowledge Governor AbdulRazaq’s efforts in mainstreaming gender inclusion in political leadership.
The event was further distinguished by the presence of two Kwara State Commissioners, Abosede Olaitan Buraimoh of Women Affairs, and Hajia Sa’adatu Kawu-Modibbo of Education and Human Capital Development. Their participation underscored the significance of the conference, which received support from the MacArthur Foundation.
Erelu Fayemi, the former First Lady of Ekiti State and author of the African feminist charter, commended Governor AbdulRazaq for giving women a voice in Nigerian politics like never before. She also applauded her husband, ex-governor Kayode Fayemi, for his contributions to gender inclusion and urged other Governors in Nigeria to emulate the commendable example set by Governor AbdulRazaq.
In her words, “Nigeria still faces challenges in achieving gender equality and women’s empowerment. Access to political leadership for women remains an uphill battle.” She singled out Governor AbdulRazaq for his dedication to promoting women’s inclusion, as he has demonstrated substantial political will that deserves emulation.
The Deputy Finance Minister of Namibia, Maureen Hinda-Mbuende, expressed her deep appreciation for Governor AbdulRazaq’s commitment to supporting women empowerment, citing the Governor’s exceptional use of his office to advance this cause.
In 2019, Governor AbdulRazaq made history by appointing a cabinet that was comprised of 56.25% women. Furthermore, the Governor ensured that 50% of slots for permanent secretaries were reserved for women. Presently, he maintains a 50% female cabinet, including young Commissioners.
Additionally, Governor AbdulRazaq has introduced legislation mandating a minimum of 35% gender parity in appointive political offices, both in the state bureaucracy and at the level of permanent secretary or boards of parastatals within Kwara State.
Expressing his gratitude, Governor AbdulRazaq thanked the organizers of the event and the Governors’ wives for their unwavering commitment to prioritizing women’s empowerment.
He stated, “This august gathering reminds us of the noble role that Women Radio, the organizers of this event, has played over the years in shedding light on women’s issues, advocating for the girl child, and working towards the overall well-being of our community.”
Governor AbdulRazaq continued, “I am personally proud to be associated with the management and staff of Women Radio. I congratulate you on this wonderful initiative. Women Radio has been a consistent supporter of our administration’s efforts in gender mainstreaming in Kwara State, dating back to 2019 when we nominated a cabinet with a female majority of 56.25%.”
He further emphasized, “However, our commitment goes beyond mere token representation. We have enacted legislation that compels every government in our state to ensure at least 35% gender representation in all government appointments, including at the level of permanent secretary or boards of parastatals.”
The Governor confidently shared, “This policy has had a positive ripple effect within our state’s political space. Today, we can proudly boast of having the youngest female lawmaker in Nigeria, in addition to other female legislators in the House. Our aim is to eliminate all barriers hindering the progress of the girl child and empower them to reach for the stars!”
Building on his dedication to gender inclusion, Governor AbdulRazaq highlighted various educational and sanitation programs aimed at encouraging girls to enroll in school and complete their education. One notable initiative is the Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE), to which his administration has pledged support.
Furthermore, Governor AbdulRazaq’s administration has implemented a six-month maternity leave policy to enable women to nurture their children without compromising their professional status or abandoning work.
He confidently expressed optimism for other states in Nigeria to follow suit and set new positive standards regarding gender mainstreaming, emphasizing the collective effort required to influence national legislation in support of gender parity and the empowerment of women and the girl child.
Concluding his speech, Governor AbdulRazaq once again commended Women Radio for their impactful work over the years and expressed his commitment to upholding the ideals that they represent.
