Nigeria must do away with prejudice against women-Oluremi Tinubu

The senator, representing Lagos Central Senatorial District in the National Assembly, Oluremi Tinubu said Nigeria must jettison institutionalised bias and laws against women.

Senator Tinubu, in a message on Monday to commemorate the International Women’s Day, 2022, said women must continue to fight for their rights, especially in view of last week’s votes in the National Assembly on Gender Equality and Equal Opportunity Bills.

The senator, who promised to continue to advocate for women, also called for conscious decision to be made to support women in the various spheres of life.

Tinubu, while acknowledging the many huddles facing women in their fight for equality, however, said it is imperative for them to come together to achieve the desired results.

She said: “I salute and celebrate Nigerian women and our counterparts all over the world on this commemoration of I am proud of the work you are doing to improve the lot of women, and I am especially proud of everyone who in spite of opposition, continues to speak up for us and the causes that affect our gender.

“This year’s theme, ‘Break the Bias’ is apt, particularly in light of last week’s Constitutional Amendment votes. Imagine a situation where we have more women in the National Assembly, imagine how much difference our voices will make. Imagine a world where women occupy more managerial and executive positions, and how much more our interests will be represented.

“For any of this to be possible however, we must break the bias. There are hurdles we must cross, but we must put aside our differences if we must achieve a lot. On this journey of ensuring gender inclusiveness, we need one another. We must realise that despite our differences, we are comrades-in-arms, working towards the same goal.

“What role are you playing to challenge gender biases and discrimination in your Community? What are you doing as an employer to bridge the gender wage gap? “How are you inspiring younger Nigerian girls and women? Are you still conforming to gender stereotypes? What are you doing to ensure that girls and women around you have a voice and can use it effectively?

“As a legislator, the cause of women remains dear to my heart, and I will continue to push for inclusiveness in electioneering, the legislative arm and across board. I will continue to advocate for women, empowering as many as I can on this journey.

“As women, our strength and courage cannot wane. We must continue to do the most to challenge assumptions, raise the bar and shatter stereotypical ceilings in businesses, our chosen careers, management and public office.

“Like you all, I look forward to a world without bias, especially on the basis of gender; and assure you of my continued commitment to the advancement of rights of the girl child and women.”