In preparation for the November 16, 2024 gubernatorial election in Ondo State, non-governmental organization, Nigerian Women Trust Fund(NWTF), has begun a 3-day training for trainers on voter’s education.
The training is part of the efforts of the nonprofit organization to ensure adequate participation and reduce void votes in the forthcoming poll.
The Chief Executive Officer(CEO) of NWTF, Ms. Brenda Anugwom in her address at the program in Akure, the state capital, said the training became necessary to equip women with required knowledge and skills to ensure adequate women participation in the forthcoming election the state.
According to her, the 3-day training was organized by NWTF and sponsored by European Union(EU) for the purpose of deepening democratic process and strengthening institutions.
In the speech read on her behalf by Ms Vanessa Gregory, Programme Lead, NWTF, Ms. Brenda Anugwom said: “This workshop is especially significant due to the vital support provided by the EU’s program for democratic governance in Nigeria. This initiative has been crucial in enhancing democratic processes and strengthening institutions, and it aligns perfectly with our goal of advancing women’s civic engagement.
“Today, we embark on a journey to equip ourselves with the knowledge and skills necessary to ensure that women across our communities are not just registered voters but informed and active participants in shaping our nation’s future. By investing in women’s civic engagement, we contribute to a more inclusive and representative democracy.
“Over the course of this workshop, we will explore innovative strategies, share best practices, and collaborate to develop effective tools and methods for reaching out to women of diverse backgrounds. We are particularly grateful for the EU’s support, which has enabled us to break down barriers that may hinder women’s participation in the electoral process.”
In her address, the Resident Electoral Commissioner for Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Ondo State, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Babalola appreciated the NWTF for organising, at critical time, the training which focused on continuous voter educate in preparation for the November 16, 2024 gubernatorial poll in the State.
“I would like to use this opportunity to express INEC’s gratitude to Nigerian Women Trust Fund for organizing this workshop at such a critical and opportune time. The objective is to conduct an impact Training of Trainers (ToT) programme, and I must commend the efforts put into identifying and inviting the twenty (20) vibrant women-led civil society organizations.
“I am confident that all the organizations here present have a broad reach and the capacity to further disseminate the training to other women’s groups, ahead of the 2024 governorship election in the State.
“Today, we are gathered to empower women trainers to promote informed citizenship and democratic participation. This workshop aims to enhance trainers’ knowledge of voter education, develop effective training methodologies, foster critical thinking and civic engagement, and promote gender sensitive voter education,” the REC said.
Represented by the Deputy Director, Voter Education, Gender and Inclusivity Department, Mr. Toye Oyeyemi, the Resident Electoral Commissioner explained that “through the training, we will engage in an in-depth discussion on electoral processes and reform explore voter registration exercises and strategies to increase voter turnout, address gender-based barriers to voting, and develop inclusive training mechanisms.
“As trainers, you will play a vital role in educating women about the voting rights and responsibilities, promoting critical thinking on political issues, encouraging active citizenship, and strengthening democratic processes. Therefore we expect you to resourcefully cascade the training you acquired at an appropriate time.
“Please note that only informed women voters can drive positive change, hold leaders accountable, and shape policies and decisions. Let us work together to empower women, strengthen democracy and build a brighter future.”
