I salute and celebrate Nigerian women and our counterparts all over the world on this commemoration of International Women’s Day, 2022. I am proud of the work you are doing to improve the lot of women, and I am especially proud of everyone who in spite of opposition, continues to speak up for us and the causes that affect our gender.
This year’s theme, ‘Break the Bias’ is apt, particularly in light of last week’s Constitutional Amendment votes. Imagine a situation where we have more women in the National Assembly, imagine how much difference our voices will make. Imagine a world where women occupy more managerial and executive positions, and how much more our interests will be represented.
For any of this to be possible however, we must break the bias. There are hurdles we must cross, but we must put aside our differences if we must achieve a lot. On this journey of ensuring gender inclusiveness, we need one another. We must realise that despite our differences, we are comrades-in-arms, working towards the same goal.
What role are you playing to challenge gender biases and discrimination in your Community? What are you doing as an employer to bridge the gender wage gap? How are you inspiring younger Nigerian girls and women? Are you still conforming to gender stereotypes? What are you doing to ensure that girls and women around you have a voice and can use it effectively?
We must make a conscious decision to support other women in our various spheres. We must build ladders for the women coming behind us to climb on and where necessary, we must do away with institutionalised bias and the laws and that entrench the bias.
As a legislator, the cause of women remains dear to my heart, and I will continue to push for inclusiveness in electioneering, the legislative arm and across board. I will continue to advocate for women, empowering as many as I can on this journey.
As women, our strength and courage cannot wane. We must continue to do the most to challenge assumptions, raise the bar and shatter stereotypical ceilings in businesses, our chosen careers, management and public office.
Like you all, I look forward to a world without bias, especially on the basis of gender; and assure you of my continued commitment to the advancement of rights of the girl child and women.
Once again, I salute you all and wish you Happy International Women’s Day.
Senator Oluremi Tinubu, OON