By Jadesola Ajibola
The international Press Centre has called on Nigeria Policital parties to priotise women leadership by adopting the 35% affirmative action for more investment in Women in this Democractic dispensation.
According to IPC Program officer, Melody Akinjiyan in a statement commemorating the 2026 International Women’s Day, the International Press Centre, IPC joins the global community in celebrating the resilience, achievements, and invaluable contributions of women across all spheres of society.
On this International Women’s Day, IPC noted that the passage of bill for special seats for women and all political parties adopting the 35% affirmative action will promote empowerment for women and gender equalityin the country.
IPC is also requested for an improved working environment and conditions for female journalists; more opportunities for women in leadership positions in the media space which will create an enabling environment for the media to give adequate and insightful coverage to issues of women and the girl child.
It calls for investments in women’s leadership and economic independence, recognizing that when women thrive, the society prospers. “When we give women the space, support, and opportunity to lead, societies gain stronger democracies, more vibrant media ecosystems, and more inclusive development outcomes”.
The statement said that women continue to play vital roles in advancing democracy, strengthening media institutions, and promoting inclusive governance, insisting that persistent barriers still limit the participation of women in decision-making spaces, media leadership, and democratic processes.
IPC noted that this year’s theme, “Give to Gain,” underscores a powerful truth: when societies intentionally invest in women by providing opportunities, platforms, and protections everyone benefits, knowing the volume of impact the women folks make.
“Some of the challenges women face range from gender inequality in political representation to limited access to platforms where women’s voices can shape national and global discourse”.
IPC emphasizes that meaningful progress requires deliberate action. Supporting women through affirmative action policies, expanding opportunities for women in leadership and decision-making, and ensuring press freedom and media spaces that are safe and inclusive for female journalists are critical steps toward achieving gender equity.
IPC added that it remains committed to advancing initiatives that promote gender equity in the media and democratic governance, while continuing to support platforms that empower women journalists and leaders.
