“In my efforts to address gender inequality and promote women’s participation, I have spearheaded gender-sensitive budgeting and policy reforms, established a women’s caucus within the Ekiti State House of Assembly, supported women’s empowerment programs including entrepreneurship training and mentorship initiatives, and advocated for increased representation of women in leadership positions.”
Member and Chairman of the House Committee on Health and Human Services in the Ekiti State House of Assembly Hon. (Princess) Adeteju Okuyiga, is creating a nitch and standing out as a formidable force, driving significant change and championing the cause of women in governance.
She served her first tenure from June 6, 2019, to June 5, 2023, and currently in her second tenure from June 6, 2023, to June 5, 2027.
Hon. Okuyiga has made remarkable strides in her role as a Committee Chair, her dedication to public service, health, and women’s rights has been a beacon of progress and empowerment.
Legislative Accomplishments
As the Chairman of the House Committee on Health and Human Services, Hon. Okuyiga has spearheaded several legislative initiatives aimed at improving healthcare services in Ekiti State. Her leadership has been instrumental in the enactment of policies that address the health needs of women and children, ensuring that healthcare systems are more accessible and responsive to the community’s needs.
Notable achievements include:
Sponsored Bills: Promoting education, healthcare, and economic empowerment for marginalized communities.
Advocacy for Funding: Successfully advocated for increased funding for infrastructure development and social welfare programs.
Stakeholder Collaboration: Worked with various stakeholders to establish vocational training centers for youth and women.
Community Engagement: Facilitated initiatives fostering dialogue and inclusive decision-making.
“To address gender inequality and promote women’s participation, I have:
– Spearheaded gender-sensitive budgeting and policy reforms.
– Established a women’s caucus within the House of Assembly.
– Supported women’s empowerment programs, including entrepreneurship training and mentorship initiatives.
– Advocated for increased representation of women in leadership positions,” she shared.
Championing Women’s Rights
Hon. Okuyiga’s impact was notably highlighted during the 2021 Womanifesto Dialogue held at the University of Lagos. In her goodwill message, she underscored the critical issues of women’s safety and political participation, emphasizing the urgent need for reforms to create a more inclusive and secure environment for women.
Her address was a clarion call for greater gender sensitivity within political and social structures, advocating for the inclusion of women’s perspectives in security sector reforms and decision-making processes.
Throughout her tenure, Hon. Okuyiga has been at the forefront of advancing women’s rights and participation in politics. She has consistently supported initiatives aimed at reducing violence against women and enhancing their representation in political offices. Pioneering health reforms during her first tenure, Hon. Okuyiga spearheaded several health initiatives that have significantly improved the welfare of Ekiti State.
A Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Hon. Okuyiga is committed to expanding opportunities for women in decision-making. She envisions a political landscape where women’s voices are not only heard but are crucial in shaping policies and reforms. Reinforcing her call to action from the Womanifesto Dialogue, she emphasized the importance of supporting women’s networks and strengthening alliances to foster regional and international solidarity. Her initiatives include:
Gender-Sensitive Budgeting: Spearheading gender-sensitive budgeting and policy reforms.
Women’s Caucus: Establishing a women’s caucus within the House of Assembly.
Empowerment Programs: Supporting women’s empowerment programs, including entrepreneurship training and mentorship initiatives.
Representation: Advocating for increased representation of women in leadership positions.
Commitment to Security and Equality
Hon. Okuyiga’s tenure is also marked by her unwavering commitment to improving security for women. She has advocated for reforms that address women’s specific safety concerns, pushing for a political environment where women can participate without fear of violence or defamation. Her efforts to reduce slander and promote media accountability are part of a broader strategy to ensure that women can engage in public life with dignity and respect.
Hon. (Princess) Adeteju Okuyiga’s journey in the Ekiti State House of Assembly exemplifies resilience, dedication, and visionary leadership. Her tireless advocacy for women’s rights, legislative reforms, and efforts to create a safer, more inclusive political environment highlight her as a transformative leader. As she continues her service, Hon. Okuyiga’s legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations of women to pursue leadership and effect change in their communities.
She remains steadfast in her commitment to representing women’s voices by:
Engaging in regular town hall meetings and community outreach programs.
Collaborating with women’s organizations and advocacy groups.
Supporting gender-sensitive policy initiatives and budget allocations.
Fostering cross-party alliances to advance gender equality legislation.
Advice to Aspiring Female Leaders
Her advice to aspiring female leaders is:
“Believe in yourself and your abilities.
Build a strong support network and mentorship relationships.
Stay informed, educated, and passionate about your causes.
Persevere through challenges and use failures as growth opportunities.
Embrace your unique perspective and voice; it’s essential in shaping inclusive policies,” she said.