Dorothy Nuhu-Aken’ova: Celebrating Women Activist Par Excellence
By Abdul Muhammad Isah
Nigeria is a country of immense potential, and the contributions of women have been instrumental in its social, political, and economic development. From the fight for independence to the struggle for gender equality, Nigerian women have played a significant role in driving progress, prosperity, and improving living conditions in the country.
Nigerian women have been at the forefront of campaigns for better healthcare, education and employment opportunities; as well as advocating for greater representation in political decision-making.
Despite facing several challenges, their courage and determination has enabled them to overcome these challenges to make a lasting impact on Nigerian society.
From grassroots activism to high-level decision-making roles, Nigerian women have been involved in every aspect of Nigerian society. They have taken on leadership roles within their communities and actively participated in government initiatives that promote social justice and economic growth.
Women are also increasingly taking on entrepreneurial roles that create jobs and foster innovation. Through their hard work and dedication, Nigerian women are helping their country reach its full potential.
Throughout Nigeria’s history, there have been a number of women who have made significant contributions to the social, economic and political development of the country. From the pre-colonial period to the present day, these women have played an important role in shaping Nigeria’s history and culture.
From Nana Asma’u, a 19th century female Islamic scholar who wrote extensively on education and social reform; to Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, a prominent feminist and civil rights campaigner; to Amina Lawal, an inspirational advocate for women’s rights; these women have all made great strides in promoting gender equality in Nigeria, and their work has had far-reaching implications for Nigerian society as a whole.
Another woman in contemporary history that has made significant contributions to promoting gender equality in Nigeria is Dorothy Nuhu-Aken’ova.
Dorathy is a prominent Nigerian activist who has dedicated her life to fighting for the rights of women and children,including advocating for their education, healthcare, and protection against violence and abuse.
Read Also:
She is also well-versed in politics, having aspired to contest for the seat of the Nigerian President under the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in 2023, but due to schemes against Women which she couldn’t withstand, she left the party and joins the All Progressives Congress and is a Chieftain for good governance towards growth and development.
As the founder and Executive Director of “Increase” a Non governmental organization responsible for Children and Women rights, as well as advocating for good governance and democracy in Nigeria.
Dorothy has advocated for gender equality, women’s health and reproductive rights, and the elimination of violence against women and girls. She was part of the team that drafted Nigeria’s Child Rights Act which was signed into law in 2003.
Dorathy worked with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) to develop interventions for reducing maternal mortality in Nigeria. She also played a significant role in Nigeria’s democracy, serving as a member of the technical committee responsible for developing a National Gender Policy, which was adopted by the Nigerian Government in 2006.
Dorothy’s expertise in politics and women and child rights activism has made a significant impact in Nigeria and beyond.
[6/1, 19:53] BBC Abdul:
Aken’ova, who is the founder of the Dorothy Nuhu Aken’Ova Foundation (DNA), urged President Tinubu to prioritize women’s representation in his cabinet as a way of promoting gender equity and empowering women in Nigeria.
She noted that women have been historically marginalized in Nigerian politics and urged the President to take bold steps towards addressing this longstanding issue.
According to Aken’ova the inclusion of women in his government and ensure that they are given significant positions to contribute to the development of the country.
She emphasized the importance of gender diversity in leadership, stating that it creates more balance and equality in decision-making processes.
She also pointed out that women make up a significant proportion of Nigeria’s population and should be well-represented in all aspects of governance.
Aken’ova further stated that the 35 percent United Nation’s affirmative action plan for Women in governance was put in place to promote gender equality and the inclusion of women in decision-making processes.
She urged President Tinubu to uphold this policy and ensure that more women are appointed to key positions in his administration.
In conclusion, Aken’ova commended President Tinubu for his efforts in promoting women’s rights and urged him to continue to prioritize the inclusion of women in his government.
Muhammad Isah writes from Abuja
