Lagos – The Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) on Monday in Lagos urged the Federal Government to increase the representation of women in leadership positions in the country.
Mrs Nike Akande, President of the chamber, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the country must give priority to gender equality, increased participation and women empowerment as a development agenda.
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Akande was speaking on how women could contribute to national development ahead of the International Women’s Day (IWD) that is celebrated worldwide on March 8.
The day, first celebrated in 1911, is dedicated to celebrating women’s achievements throughout history and across nations. It is also known as the United Nations (UN) Day for Women’s Rights and International Peace
Akande said, “Women make up half of the country’s population and they are very industrious when given the opportunity of leadership.
“I am the second woman president of LCCI in its 128 years of existence and a former Minister of Industry.
“I have always believed in women empowerment and supporting women to utilise their potentials for national development.
“It is not easy for women in Nigeria to rise to leadership positions but the government can make this possible through laws that guarantee that women’s quota in public and private sector positions are safeguarded.”
She urged women in private and public sectors to influence policies and laws that would advance and protect the wellbeing of other women. (NAN)