Aug 1, 2007 - Capacity Building Workshop Organised By Kudirat Initiative For Democracy (KIND)
Since the conclusion of the famous world Conference on Women in Beijing China and other subsequent conferences that followed especially the one held in September 2005 on Elimination of all forms of Discrimination against Women, it can be said that relative progress has been achieved with regard to women participation in governance.
Today, it is a welcome development that women are gradually taking up the challenge of being active partners in the socio political development especially at top decision making positions. The outstanding performance of women who are occupying key positions both in the private and public sector has further confirmed our potentials and the need to fast track the process of fully integrating the women folk into the mainstream of national development process.
This, no doubt is a desirable goal which can only be achieved through a gradual process of consolidating on the modest achievements we have recorded to far.
It is therefore on this note that I want to commend the Kudirat Initiative for Democracy (KIND) for organising this capacity building workshop for women aspirants in the forthcoming local government elections in Lagos State. I am informed that this workshop which I believe is very timely, is part of the activities of KIND’s 30 by 11 campaign which seeks to increase women representation on party tickets in the 2007 and 2011 elections.
My dear sisters, there is no doubt about the fact that women are faced with peculiar challenges in the process of realising their political ambitions. I strongly believe that these challenges can be overcome if women rally round themselves and explore the population advantage.
Let me also at this point reiterate that as much as it is desirable to encourage more women participation in politics, it must not be at the expense of our primary duties as wives and mothers. We must always strive to strike a balance in a way that we will maintain a united, happy and responsible family. It is no doubt, a daunting task which I believe can be surmounted with the grace of God and the support and understanding of our spouses.
On a final note, I want to enjoin all our female political aspirants and those that are already occupying leadership positions especially in the legislative arm of government to be united in ensuring the protection and promotion of the interests of women. This, to my mind, is one of the ways by which women aspirants will always the trust and support of other women in realising their political ambitions.
Once again, I applaud the organisers of this workshop and other women based NGOs that are partnering with KIND in ensuring women representation and participation in politics. I urge all participants to take full advantage of this opportunity by listening attentively and participating actively in all the sessions of the workshop.
Distinguished ladies, on this note, it is my singular honour and privilege to declare this workshop open.
I wish you all a rewarding deliberation and best of luck in your political aspirations.
Thank you and God bless you all.
Her Excellency
Mrs. Abimbola Fashola
First Lady of Lagos State