The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has reiterated its commitment to strengthening inclusivity in Nigeria’s electoral process, particularly for women, youth, and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).
The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) Gombe State, Dr. Sa’ad Umar Idris, gave the assurance in Gombe on Tuesday, 2nd September 2025, while declaring open the North-East Zonal Capacity Building Workshop for Gender and Disability Desk Officers, held at Custodian Hotel, Gombe.
Dr. Idris acknowledged the role of the Nigerian Women Trust Fund (NWTF) as a key partner in advancing inclusivity, noting that the Commission’s collaboration with the organisation has been instrumental in amplifying the voices of marginalized groups in the electoral process.
Highlighting INEC’s deliberate steps towards inclusivity over the past 15 years, the REC recalled the launch of the INEC Gender Policy in 2014 (reviewed in 2021), as well as the Framework on Access and Participation of Persons with Disabilities in 2018. He further explained that the Gender Unit was elevated to a full Department of Gender and Inclusivity in 2021 to strengthen implementation.
Dr. Idris disclosed that, INEC has also introduced a merit quota for women in recruitment and promotion, including appointments as Heads of Department and Electoral Officers. He noted that during the 2019 and 2023 general elections, deliberate efforts were made to engage young women and PWDs as ad hoc staff, underscoring the Commission’s determination to make inclusivity both policy and practice.
Addressing the participants, Dr. Idris described Gender and Disability Desk Officers as the Commission’s “bridge with marginalized groups,” stressing that they play a strategic role in ensuring inclusivity at the grassroots level. While acknowledging progress, such as the deployment of assistive devices in recent elections, he emphasized the need for more effective distribution to those who truly need them.
The workshop, he explained, was designed to equip participants with the knowledge, tools, and confidence to drive inclusivity in the electoral process. He urged them to engage actively by asking questions, exchanging ideas, and thinking innovatively.
Welcoming participants to Gombe, “the Jewel in the Savannah,” Dr. Idris wished them a rewarding workshop and a pleasant stay.
Source: INEC
No comments