Empowering Young Women in Politics: Yiaga Africa, WILAN Launch Leadership Training

In a bid to promote gender equality and increase women’s participation in politics, Yiaga Africa and the Women in Leadership Advancement Network (WILAN) have launched a two-day intensive training program for 20 young women from across Lagos State. The training, tagged “Young Women’s Political Organising Lab,” aims to equip these young women with the necessary skills and knowledge to take on leadership roles in politics and civic engagement, particularly ahead of the upcoming local government elections on July 12.

The workshop, which kicked off on Monday at the Colossus Hotel in Ikeja, is a collaborative effort between Yiaga Africa, WILAN, and the Federal Ministry for Economic CooperDevelopment (BMZ) through GIZ. The participants, selected from various political parties operating in the state’s 20 Local Government Areas (LGAs) and 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs), will undergo rigorous training in political organizing, campaign strategy, public service delivery, and leadership development.

The training program is designed to address the significant underrepresentation of women in Nigerian politics, where women hold only a fraction of elective offices. By empowering young women with the skills and confidence to participate in politics, Yiaga Africa and WILAN hope to create a more inclusive and diverse political landscape in Lagos State.

The participants will learn from experienced facilitators and trainers who will share their expertise and provide guidance on how to navigate the complexities of politics. The training will also provide a platform for young women to network, share their experiences, and build relationships with like-minded individuals who are passionate about creating positive change in their communities.

According to the organizers, the training program is part of a broader effort to promote women’s leadership and political participation in Nigeria. By investing in the development of young women, Yiaga Africa and WILAN aim to create a pipeline of future leaders who are equipped to drive positive change and contribute to the development of their communities.

The launch of the Young Women’s Political Organising Lab is a significant step towards promoting gender equality and increasing women’s participation in politics in Lagos State. As the state prepares for the local government elections, this training program is timely and relevant, providing young women with the skills and knowledge they need to make a meaningful impact in the political process.