Nigerian Women Articulate Action Plan for 2007 Elections
In response to the challenges facing women aspiring for political positions in Nigeria, UNIFEM, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the Federal Ministry of Women's Affairs and the Joint Donor Basket Fund gathered stakeholders in Abuja on 5-7 December 2006 at a conference entitled, "Women and the Elections: Issues, Challenges and Prospects for 2007." The conference culminated in a declaration, which called on political parties to advance equity for women in political participation and governance by adopting the 30-percent affirmative action benchmark, and on the media to devote increased attention to women's issues. It also called on all Nigerian women to join political parties and register to vote in the forthcoming elections. A highlight of the event was the launch of a trust fund to support women wit h political aspirations across the country. For more information, please contact Ikechukwu Attah, ikechukwu.attah[at]unifem.org