Senator representing Plateau South in the National Assembly Prof. Dame Nora Daduut on Monday called on women to  participate in partisan politics and governance in the country .


"There should be an increase  in mentorship and other efforts to boost the number of women in traditionally male occupation and position of political leadership".




She further called for the Increase  in the enforcement of existing laws against gender based employment discrimination and against sexual harassment .



Senator Daduut a Professor of French made this this known while delivering a paper titled  Challenges to Gender Inequality and Women Rights at a one day symposium at the  Federal College of Animal Health and Production Technology, National Veterinary And Research Institute Vom Plateau state .


In her words  "The use of power to influence decision making that affects a country or society, demands strong and healthy human relationship. 



She further added that In most cases, the woman does not have the freedom to participate fully and choose her interest against that of the man. 


"She is sometimes subjected to harassment and deprivation of financial support which leads to lack of political representation of women in active politics in Nigeria. " The women form about 60% - 70% of voters and yet they do not hold many elected political posts.


" A synopsis of the Nigerian national elections since 1999 to date gives a clear picture of disparity and challenge to women rights. In the National Assembly for example, only about 2.8% of women are represented while 7.3% of women are represented in the various States Houses of Assembly."


Prof Daduut also added that "These challenges do not allow the woman to make her contributions towards nation building as she is  discouraged and hence the lack of political representation at the national level in the political arena. 



She further added that  "I appeal for the increase in government efforts including increased funding and  financial support for rape crisis centers."



"Contemporary strong women movements should continue to advocate for the elimination of sexism in the country and in the world at large "



She lamented that  women have often been underrepresented in leadership positions and decision making and are only sought after as electorate during electioneering campaigns.