Dear Mr President,

We, the women of Nigeria, are deeply concerned about the absence of women and the consideration of women's issues in policymaking in our country. The absence of women where it really matters is not without consequences. This situation does not just perpetuate gender inequality alone. Failure to have representation and our considerations have proved catastrophic, resulting in the low development indices our country has recorded in the past few years. 

In Nigeria, women make up about half of the voting population, yet they are disadvantaged by electoral laws, leading to minimal representation in elected and appointed positions in government. Women entrepreneurs are excluded from the financial system and lack access to meaningful economic opportunities. Women are the most disproportionately affected group in conflict and crisis situations. Nigeria is one of the world's worst places for pregnant women who die during childbirth. At least a third of Nigerian women have experienced gender-based violence. Yet, women are not in positions to make and enforce the policies needed to bring about change. This should not continue. 

Yet societies make progress where women are involved in making policy and in political leadership. For example, investing in women's education can add billions to the GDP. Evidence shows that investing in women yields returns beyond the individual and impacts communities. Women are more likely to repay their loans. Involving women in peacebuilding negotiations leads to sustained periods of peace. 

As concerned Nigerian women, our demands are firmly rooted in achieving progress in our country. Towards this purpose, we demand immediate and urgent intervention in the five main areas outlined below.

1. Increased Political Representation: women must form at least 35% of all appointed positions in government in line with affirmative action and commitments made by the Nigerian government
2. Elimination of Gender-Based Violence: women must be protected from all forms of abuse through the implementation of anti-violence laws and the establishment of structures to protect women from violent abuse.
3. End to Maternal Mortality: women must receive free and high-quality care during and after pregnancy to make childbirth and delivery a safe experience
4. Increased Economic Empowerment: women must receive the relevant tools and support to enable them access finance, markets, and other economic gains
5. Participation in Conflict and Crisis Response: women must become active players in peacebuilding negotiations and in responding to humanitarian crises which disproportionately affect us. 

While these are not exhaustive demands, we believe that when women are at the centre of policymaking in thought and in action, Nigeria will become a better country for women and every citizen to thrive. 

The time to act is now! 

cc:

• The Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, H.E Kashim Shettima
• The Distinguished Senate President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, H.E Godswill Akpabio
• The Chief of Staff to the President, H.E Femi Gbajabiamila 
• The Secretary General of the  Federation, H.E George Akume