One of Nigeria’s leading actresses, Ini Edo, hit a goldmine on Thursday when she was unveiled in Abuja as ambassador for women’s empowerment of the National Democratic Institute (NDI).
National Democratic Institute for International Affairs is a non-governmental organisation that works with partners in developing countries to strengthen democratic institutions.
NDI unveiled the 32-year-old Special Assistant to the Akwa Ibom State governor during a press conference in Abuja .
Speaking at the event, the screen diva said she would elicit the support of Nigerian citizens to join the cause for increased women participation in electoral and democratic processes.
“It is a critical time for women in our country and I am very excited to be here and to formally take on the role of the NDI Ambassador for Women’s Empowerment in Nigeria,” Edo said.
“When I first learned from Stephen Snook of NDI’s work in Nigeria, I wanted to help. I believe women should dare to do great things. NDI is addressing two issues that are very important to me.
“The first of these is the low percentage of women who serve in public office. On average, in all the parliaments of the world, only one seat out of four is held by a woman. This isn’t enough.
“Further, only 16 percent of parliamentarians are under the age of 40 – and the larger percentage of this is also men. Women make up fifty per cent of the population in every country.
“We’re underrepresented in eligible age groups. In Nigeria, I’m sorry to say the number of women in elected offices is worse than the world average, even worse than some of our neighbours.
“And so l am joining the cause of improving women’s chances of running successfully for elected office. I won’t be alone. There are many who will be helping prominent Nigerians…
“We will be united in the cause of amending laws and addressing other barriers, to level the playing field so women can compete successfully for elected office in our country.”
