Senator Sharafadeen Alli (APC-Oyo South), the Senate Committee Chairman on Electoral Matters, has called for inclusive electoral reforms to enhance Nigeria’s democratic process.
This is contained in a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media, Akeem Abas and made available to newsmen on Tuesday in Ibadan.
The statement said that Alli made the call in his opening address at the North-West Zonal Legislative Interactive Session on the electoral act held in Katsina.
The theme of the session was 'Legislation and Participation of Women and Young Persons in Elections and Leadership.'
Senator Alli reaffirmed the National Assembly’s commitment to refining Nigeria's electoral framework, underscoring the importance of inclusivity to advance Nigeria's political landscape.
The lawmaker stressed the need to foster greater participation of all groups in the country’s governance.
Alli commended Gov. Dikko Umar Radda of Katsina for hosting the event and acknowledged the robust participation of government officials, legislators, and community leaders.
He said that the committee's consultations have spanned across Nigeria, from Lagos to Ibadan and Port Harcourt, engaging diverse demographics, including youth, women, and civil society organisations.
"This process has taken us beyond Lagos and Abuja. At the National Assembly, our efforts have been to listen and act on the views of citizens across the nation," he said
Senator Alli emphasised the favourable political environment fostered by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, which has initiated radical but far-reaching changes aimed at fast-tracking national development.
Alli encouraged Nigerians, particularly women and young people, to actively participate in the democratic process, stressing that the groups were vital drivers of Nigeria’s progress.
The lawmaker said that the legislative session also enjoyed support from international partners such as the Government of Canada, UN Women, and Kimpact Initiative for Development.
He said that their contributions underscored the significance of strengthening Nigeria’s electoral systems through collective efforts.
Senator Alli expressed optimism that the sessions would lead to reforms that truly reflect the will of the people.