By Abubakar Baba Ahmad
Stakeholders working on Women Participation in Peace and Good Governance have converged on Bauchi for the first Her Peace Conference organised to sensitise women ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The conference organised by Universal Peaceful Solutions, UPS in collaboration with Ambassadors of Peace Bauchi and Supported by the Bauchi state government is aimed at ensuring equal access to women in decision making particularly in peace process, governance and political participation.
In a paper titled Women Building Peace, Leading for Good Governance and the 2027 Elections, the Guest Speaker Hajiya Fatima Danlami, identified cultural barriers, political and electoral violence, limited resources as some of the factors hindering women’s ability to participate in governance.
Fatima Danlami advised women to lead not just participate in decision making, ensure their voices are heard and champion the cause for peace and development.
“As we approach 2027, women cannot simply be expected to watch from the sidelines while decisions about their families, communities, and country are being made. Women must be on the table, be part of the decision, be part of the conversation and part of the leadership”, the Guest Speaker said.
The Chairperson of the occasion, Ambassador Aisha Balla represented by Aisha Hassan who emphasised the need for sustainable peace, security and responsive governance, called for reconciliation, dialogue that strengthens women leadership as the 2027 elections draws nearer.
“Bringing women to the centre of peace building is essential for lasting peace. As we look ahead to the 2027 elections, establishing a peaceful, inclusive environment is vital. Inclusive governance requires that women are active participants and strategic decision makers in shaping our democratic future”, Balla noted.
Earlier, the Leader UPS Elizabeth Sabo and Legal Officer Ruth Iliya said the event was designed as a platform for women’s involvement in peace and decision making and to strengthen them to stand on their own and make impact in the society.
“Today we gather to promote peace, empower women and encourage women’s participation in good governance and leadership”, Sabo said.
“Let us work together to build a Bauchi state where Women are heard and are active partners in building peace and development “, UPS Legal Officer charged.
In their separate goodwill messages, the Deputy Controller of Customs Incharge of Operation Whirlwind DC Abu Lucky and a Peace Advocate Mr Samuel Kamfur Esq., and the State NSCDC Deputy Commandant Peace and Conflict Resolution DC Adebayo said women must make their voices heard by being active in all governance issues.
The event featured certificates and awards presentations to some deserving personalities for their efforts in Peace building and women empowerment within and outside the state.
