By Abubakar Rabilu, Gombe
A gender and social inclusion advocate, Hajiya Halima Ahmed Mahdi, has lamented that despite growing calls for inclusive governance, women, youths and persons with disabilities (PWDs) are still largely excluded from leadership and decision-making positions.
Mahdi in an interview, said the frequent emphasis on inclusiveness by governments and public institutions has yet to be matched with practical action through appointments, policymaking and programme implementation.
She argued that inclusive governance goes beyond public declarations, stressing that every segment of society should have equal opportunities to participate in shaping policies and contributing to development.
According to her, the continued underrepresentation of women, young people and PWDs weakens governance and denies society the benefits of their knowledge, experience and contributions.
Mahdi explained that sustainable development can only be achieved when governments deliberately promote diversity, fairness and equal participation in public affairs.
She urged political leaders and policymakers to adopt concrete measures that guarantee equitable representation of marginalised groups, rather than limiting inclusiveness to policy statements
She also called on public institutions to remove barriers that prevent vulnerable groups from participating fully in governance, insisting that genuine inclusiveness should be judged by visible actions that ensure no section of society is left behind.
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