By Olasunkanmi Akoni & Monsur Olowoopejo

As parts of measures to ensure active participation in the 2011 general election, the Federal Government said it has designed various programmes to create awareness in the rural areas as well as increase the participation of women in government positions to 35 per cent before Year 2015.

Meanwhile, Lagos State Government has tasked directors of Community Development to ensure massive participation of rural dwellers in all the stages of the 2011 election process.

Speaking at the conference of the 33rd Annual National Conference of Directors of Community Developments in Nigeria, held in Badagry, Lagos, the Minister for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Josephine Anenih, represented by Mrs. A. Shonuga said: “The time is ripe for change in status quo, which could only be brought about by effective mobilisation and political empowerment of the rural dwellers.

“This will enable grassroots residence contribute to electing a credible leader who will bring the long desired democratic freedom, economic reform and social change.”