The Lagos State House of Assembly reaffirms its commitment to equity and inclusion, supporting legislative frameworks for a more just society

[dropcap]T[/dropcap]he Lagos State House of Assembly has reaffirmed its commitment to legislative frameworks that promote equity and inclusion in society.

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Speaker Rt. Hon Mojisola Lasbat Meranda made this pledge on Friday during the Women Advocates Research & Documentation Centre (WARDC) Cocreation Workshop at the Protea Hotel in Lagos.

Meranda emphasised that the workshop would play a crucial role in shaping an instrument that serves as a moral compass for the society.

“Today, we are shaping a transformative instrument that will serve as a moral compass for our society—a bill that seeks to address and dismantle systemic inequalities that have long excluded vulnerable groups,” she stated.

She described the event as a significant milestone in Nigeria’s journey towards fostering a just and inclusive governance structure across all states.

Despite being Africa’s most populous nation and largest economy, Meranda noted that Nigeria’s diversity—spanning over 250 ethnic groups and multiple religions—has not always translated into equity and inclusion.

“Marginalized groups, including women, low-income individuals, persons with disabilities, and ethnic minorities, continue to face systemic barriers that restrict their access to opportunities, resources, and representation,” she said.

Women remain underrepresented in leadership, holding only a fraction of elective positions. Similarly, persons with disabilities face significant challenges in education, employment, and access to public services.

Citing the World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Report 2024, she highlighted Nigeria’s ranking at 125th out of 146 countries in gender parity, particularly in economic participation and political empowerment.

She also pointed out that individuals in rural areas and urban slums struggle to access basic amenities and economic opportunities, underscoring the need for urgent legislative intervention.

As a way forward, Meranda advocated for training and financial support for women, youth, and persons with disabilities to empower them economically.

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She assured that the Lagos State Legislature has already taken proactive steps to promote inclusion and diversity through progressive laws and advocacy.