By Paul Olayemi

The Shallow Waters Humanitarian Association has called on political stakeholders, government institutions, and Nigerians to promote greater participation of women and persons living with disabilities in the country’s political process ahead of the 2027 General Elections.

In a public sensitization statement, the President and Founder of the association, Dr. Smiles Oghoghosa Abusomwan, a seasoned diplomat based in France and attached to Charles de Gaulle International Airport in Paris, said the elections provide an opportunity to strengthen democracy, promote equality, and encourage inclusive governance across Nigeria.

He noted that women remain underrepresented in political offices despite their significant contributions to national development in sectors such as healthcare, education, agriculture, and the economy. According to him, barriers including discrimination, financial constraints, political violence, and cultural stereotypes continue to hinder women’s participation in politics.

Dr. Abusomwan urged political parties to reserve more leadership positions and candidacy opportunities for women, stressing that increased female participation could contribute positively to governance, social welfare, education, healthcare, and peacebuilding.

Also in the statement, the National Coordinator of Team Africa, Mrs. Igbinedion Charlotte, called for greater inclusion of persons living with disabilities in Nigeria’s electoral and governance structures. She said many qualified individuals are excluded from leadership opportunities due to discrimination, social stigma, and poor accessibility.

According to her, disability does not mean inability, adding that persons with disabilities can make meaningful contributions to policymaking, administration, education, technology, and national development when given equal opportunities to serve.

The Delta State Coordinator of the association, Mrs. Itobore Latoya, urged authorities to make polling units, public buildings, campaign venues, and electoral materials accessible to citizens with disabilities. She also encouraged political parties to deliberately include qualified persons with disabilities in leadership and elective positions.

The association concluded that the 2027 General Elections should serve as an opportunity to build a more inclusive society where women and persons living with disabilities are respected, represented, and empowered, noting that inclusive governance remains vital to achieving justice, unity, peace, and sustainable development.