By Ibrahim Ibrahim
The Widows Wing Association of Nigeria (WIWAN) has called for the allocation of at least 35 per cent representation for women in Nigeria’s political and public offices.
The call was made by the WIWAN Chairperson, Mrs Happiness Florence, who was represented by the association’s Secretary, Jamila Waziri, during the distribution of food items to 250 Christian widows to mark the Christmas celebration in Jigawa State.
The items were donated by a philanthropist, Hajiya (Dr) Halima Sulaiman Zakari, at an event held on Wednesday.
Florence said women in Nigeria were often denied opportunities to occupy political and public offices, stressing that greater inclusion would enhance governance and social development.
She recalled that the National Gender Policy recommends that women should occupy at least 35 per cent of political and public offices as an affirmative action measure.
“This support is timely because some of the widows here did not even have rice to cook for Christmas. This gesture has brought relief to our people, and we sincerely appreciate her kindness,” she said.
She further appealed to Jigawa State Governor, Malam Umar Namadi, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to encourage capable women especially those passionate about supporting the less privileged, like Hajiya Halima Zakarito vie for elective and appointive political positions.
Earlier, Hajiya (Dr) Halima Sulaiman Zakari said the gesture was aimed at cushioning the effects of economic hardship and spreading festive cheer among widows during the yuletide.
According to her, 10kg bags of rice and meat were distributed to Christian widows drawn from selected local government areas of Jigawa State.
“This donation is intended to put smiles on the faces of our sisters during the festive season and make the celebration joyful and memorable,” she said.
Some of the beneficiaries expressed appreciation for the gesture and prayed for God to grant the donor her heart’s desires
