Beacon Youth Initiative (BYI) in collaboration with Education as a Vaccine (EVA) have advocated for inclusion of more women and Persons With Disabilities (PWD) in governance at all levels.
The Non-Governmental Organisations made the call in an event to commemorate the 2023 World Population Day on Wednesday in Lafia.
Speaking at the event, Mr Envoh Emmanuel-Okolo, Executive Director of BYI said government at all levels should implement the affirmative action for women and PWD to carry them along and give them a sense of belonging in policy and decision making.
He said that having more vulnerable groups in governance would give them a voice and enable them speak for themselves.
The Executive Director of BYI also said that a growing global population puts increased pressure on natural resources and exacerbates the impact of climate change with women mostly at the receiving end.
He explained that Nasarawa State had witnessed the devastating effects of climate crises, including flooding, rain spells, and pest infestations among others.
He further said that women especially young girls and PWD are often the most vulnerable to environmental hazards caused by climate change.
“The consequences of climate change disrupt their access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities.
“Young girls are also faced with increased risk of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV), child marriage, and unplanned pregnancies,” he added.
Mr Emmanuel-Okolo said that the state government and other stakeholders need to come up with strategies to combat flooding in the state and protect vulnerable groups.
The theme for the 2023 population day is, “Unleashing the Power of Gender Equality: Uplifting the Voice of Women and Girls to Unlock a World’s Infinite Possibilities. (NAN).
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