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Crownrise Development Initiative Engages International Election Stakeholders Ahead of Osun Governorship Election

As part of its commitment to promoting inclusive governance, democratic participation, and credible electoral processes, Crownrise Development Initiative (CDI) hosted representatives of the International Republican Institute (IRI) and the Canadian Observation Mission Envoy at its office during the electioneering period ahead of the just-concluded Osun State Governorship Election.

The engagements provided an opportunity for meaningful conversations around the electoral process, democratic participation, citizen engagement, election preparedness, and other critical issues affecting the conduct and credibility of elections in Nigeria.

During the visits, Crownrise Development Initiative shared perspectives and grassroots insights on the emerging electoral landscape in Osun State, while also exploring opportunities for collaboration and partnership in strengthening democratic institutions, civic participation, youth engagement, and good governance.

The interactions further reinforced the importance of collaboration among civil society organisations, international development partners, electoral stakeholders, and citizens in advancing a more transparent, inclusive, peaceful, and accountable democratic process.

Crownrise Development Initiative remains committed to working with relevant stakeholders and partners to promote good governance, civic participation, youth and women development, and sustainable community development across Osun State and beyond.

The organisation appreciates the International Republican Institute, the Canadian Observation Mission Envoy, and other stakeholders for their engagement and continued interest in supporting democratic development in Nigeria.

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Crownrise Development Initiative Hosts “#Her Voice Matters” Dialogue to Advance Women’s Participation in Politics.

Osogbo, Osun State – August 10, 2026

Crownrise Development Initiative (CDI) hosted a one-day dialogue tagged “Her Voice Matters”, bringing together key stakeholders, women, young people, civil society actors and democracy advocates to discuss the need for increased and meaningful participation of women in politics and democratic governance.

The dialogue, held on Friday, August 8, 2026, in Osogbo, Osun State, was themed “Women Participation in Politics.” The programme provided a platform for participants to examine the opportunities, challenges and barriers limiting women’s involvement in political processes, leadership and decision-making.

The event commenced with a welcome address by the Executive Director of Crownrise Development Initiative, Hon. Adetunji Ajala, who emphasized the organization’s commitment to creating platforms that amplify citizens’ voices and promote inclusive participation in governance. He buttressed the importance of ensuring that women are not merely represented as voters and supporters during elections but are also empowered to actively contest for political offices and occupy decision-making spaces.

A major highlight of the programme was the panel discussion, which featured experienced professionals and stakeholders with diverse perspectives on democracy, elections, gender inclusion and civic participation.

The panel comprised Miss Obafemi Deborah, Monitoring and Evaluation Officer at the Kukah Centre; Mr. Rufus Ariyo, Head of Department, Voter Education, Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC); and Dr. Funmilayo Ojo, former Secretary of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ).

The panelists explored various dimensions of women’s participation in politics, including voter education, political representation, leadership opportunities, media visibility, institutional barriers and the role of women in strengthening democratic institutions.

Discussions also highlighted the need to address some of the persistent challenges confronting women in politics, including limited access to political structures, inadequate resources, societal stereotypes, violence and intimidation, and insufficient support for women seeking elective and appointive positions.

Participants were encouraged to move beyond conversations about women’s inclusion and take deliberate steps towards creating an environment where women can participate freely, safely and meaningfully at every level of the political process.

The dialogue provided an opportunity for participants to share experiences, ask questions and contribute recommendations on practical ways to strengthen women’s political participation in Osun State and Nigeria at large.

The engagement further emphasized the importance of civic education, mentorship, advocacy, networking and capacity building as critical tools for preparing more women to take up leadership roles and contribute effectively to democratic governance.

The “Her Voice Matters” Dialogue is part of CDI’s broader commitment to advancing good governance, civic participation, gender inclusion and accountable democratic institutions through community engagement, advocacy, research and capacity building.

#Her voice matters #Her participation matters #Her leadership matters.

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Women Political Participation Dialogue: Her Voice Matters

Democracy thrives when every voice is heard, represented, and empowered. Yet, women remain underrepresented in political leadership and decision-making despite their invaluable contributions to national development. To bridge this gap, Crownrise Development Initiative (CDI) is convening the Women Political Participation Dialogue, a strategic platform designed to inspire, equip, and mobilize women for active participation in politics and governance.

Under the theme “Her Voice Matters”, this dialogue will bring together women leaders, young women, civil society actors, community influencers, development partners, and political stakeholders to engage in meaningful conversations on increasing women’s representation in politics, dismantling barriers to participation, and strengthening inclusive democratic governance.

Who Should Attend; Women aspiring for leadership and political office, Youth leaders and student activists, Civil society organizations, Political party representatives, Community leaders, Development practitioners, Gender advocates, Members of the public interested in democratic development

Event Details:

Date: Friday, August 7, 2026
Time: 10:00 AM
Venue: CDI Conference Room, Beside Prince Ade Plaza, Fagbewesa, Osogbo.

Together, let’s amplify women’s voices, strengthen democracy, and build a more inclusive society.

Crownrise Development Initiative (CDI) remains committed to promoting active citizenship, inclusive governance, peacebuilding, and sustainable development through dialogue, advocacy, capacity building, and community engagement.

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