INEC Commemorates International Women’s Day, Pledges Stronger Commitment to Gender Equality

By Patience George

Saturday 8th March 2025

In honour of the International Women’s Day being celebrated all over the world todday, 8th March 2025, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing gender equality within the Commission and bolstering women’s involvement in Nigeria’s electoral process.

A statement issued by the Director, Voter Education and Publicity (VEP), Mrs. Victoria Eta-Messi, hailed the invaluable contributions women have made in shaping both society and the electoral landscape. Emphasizing this year’s International Women’s Day theme, “Accelerate Action,” the Commission highlighted that achieving gender equality is not just about fairness—it’s crucial for strengthening democracy. 

“A gender-balanced leadership, where women are equally represented in decision-making, creates more inclusive, responsive governance,” Mrs. Eta-Messi stated, acknowledging that Nigeria’s future democracy hinges on women’s full participation.

Reflecting on the progress within INEC, she pointed to key positions now held by women:

• National Commissioners: Out of 12 National Commissioners, 2 are women, representing 16.7% of the leadership. While this marks progress, INEC recognizes more work is required to achieve full gender parity.
• Secretary of the Commission: The role of Secretary, which oversees INEC’s operations, is held by a woman, showcasing women’s increasing role in top administrative positions.
• Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs): Of the 32 RECs, 4 are women, comprising 12.5% of this influential leadership group. This number continues to grow as the Commission works to enhance gender representation regionally.
• Administrative Secretaries: Out of 37 Administrative Secretaries, 12 are women, accounting for 32.4% of the leadership.
• Directors: Women now make up 42.3% of the 26 Directors, signaling a significant increase in women’s roles within the decision-making body.

Despite these strides, INEC recognizes that gender equality remains a work-in-progress. Mrs. Eta-Messi emphasized the need for policies to eliminate the barriers women face, including societal expectations, lack of support systems, and gender-based violence.

“The Commission is committed to ensuring equal representation at all levels of the electoral process,” she declared. “We are actively working on policies that will encourage greater participation of women—whether as candidates, voters, election administrators, or party representatives.”

She continued: “INEC’s efforts aim to break down the societal and structural barriers that limit women’s involvement, reinforcing that gender equality is foundational to a strong democracy. As the Commission celebrates this year’s International Women’s Day, it reaffirms its dedication to empowering women within Nigeria’s electoral process.”

The statement concluded with a call to action for all Nigerians: “When women are empowered to take leadership roles and given equal opportunities, our democracy will thrive. Governance will be more inclusive, and Nigeria’s future will be brighter for all.

In this pivotal moment, INEC urges everyone—both men and women—to continue supporting gender equality, not just in the electoral process, but in every aspect of life.