Senator Ireti Kingibe (FCT) stresses the need for new legislation to promote women's inclusion in governance.
Senator Kingibe noted on Arise Television that countries with women in governance show a direct link between economic development and women's involvement in policy and decision-making.
She said, "When parties select delegates, they typically choose only men, even when asked for three delegates from each ward."
She noted that when parties are required to include at least one woman among three delegates from each ward, they start to include women.
"I'm not saying we're law-abiding, but making it a law would help."
"Then parties and government agencies will be responsible for finding competent women who are available."
Kingibe debunked the idea that women don't support each other in elections, saying this notion is outdated. She emphasized that women now support each other more.
She's building a national database of women to mobilize them as a voting bloc.
Kingibe said, "Women's awareness and thinking have evolved."
"I received overwhelming support from women across the board."
"Myself and other women are building a national database to mobilize women as a voting bloc."
"You need to show me you'll take action if I don't."
Few women are on the ballot, making it harder for women to vote for women.
"The Labor Party fielded only a few female candidates, just two or three out of 109 tickets."
"Women must be on the ballot to be voted for," she said. "Only four women are in the Nigerian Senate."