The Minister of Women Affairs, Dame Pauline Tallen, has called on women in Nigeria to actively participate in politics saying they are the engine room of societal development and the key role players in development and progress in all spheres of human life. 


Tallen made the call Sunday at the Holy Trinity Parish of the Catholic Church, Maitama in Abuja while marking the International Women's Day, with the theme: "Women in Leadership."


She appealed for a review of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic as amended to grant women more opportunity of higher participation in politics which according to her will change the narrative for the good of the nation and fulfilling the dreams of our past heroes and nationalists. 


In the same vein, the Minister advocated justice and equality be granted to vulnerable women and children in the country, and solicited support for women to excel in politics and leadership positions from their men counterparts. 


While delivering his homily, the priest in charge of the parish, Rev. Fr. Celestine Ejim, commended women for their active participation in government noting that more is expected from them as nation builders.


He called on men to support the good cause of justice and equal rights in politics without sentiment and discrimination against the other sex saying everyone is equal before God.


Speaking on behalf of the Nigerian Governors, Imo state Governor, Senator Hope Uzodima, congratulated all women and promised to support them at all cost saying mothers are nation builders and key to every stage of development.


Goodwill messages were received from the United Nations representative, Comfort Lamptey, as the event climax with thanksgiving procession in honour of all women in commemoration of the celebration day.