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From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
In a bold push to shatter Nigeria’s dismal record on women’s political representation, TOS Foundation Africa, partnering with the Embassy of Switzerland in Nigeria, unveiled the HerCademy Legislative Mentorship Programme on Tuesday.
The six-week intensive targets aspiring female leaders nationwide, offering hands-on training in legislative processes, policy development, political strategy, and simulations to prepare them not just to run for office, but to govern effectively.
Founder of TOS Foundation Africa, Osasu Igbinedion-Ogwuche issued a rallying cry: “Nigeria does not lack capable women. What we lack are systems that expect women to lead—and structures that support them to win and govern effectively.”
She stressed HerCademy’s focus on real power: “This is not just about participation; it is about power—equipping women to understand how laws are made, how systems work, and how to lead with competence and clarity once they are in the room.”
Switzerland’s Chargé d’Affaires to Nigeria, Siamak Rouhani, spotlighted the crisis: “Women make up less than 5% of Nigeria’s National Assembly—the lowest rate of female parliamentary representation in Africa.”
He added, “By investing in these aspiring parliamentarians, we are advancing inclusive governance as the backbone of a stable and prosperous society.”
A fireside chat featured British Deputy High Commissioner Gill Lever, and Dr. Adanna Steinacker, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Women’s Health. Lever drove home the point: “Influence is not just about winning a seat. Effective leadership is what you do after you get the title—how you deliver outcomes in systems not designed for you.” She noted, “Power is rarely given to women. It is usually negotiated—and sometimes taken.”
The programme boasts a powerhouse faculty, including Chimdi Nelachukwu, Special Assistant to the Speaker on Policy and Innovation; Chidozie Aja, Special Adviser to the Deputy Speaker on Legislative Affairs; and Osasuyi Dirisu, Executive Director of the Policy Innovation Centre.
