By: Temitope OYEKAN

The first female Accountant General of the Federation in Nigeria, Dr. (Mrs.) Oluwatoyin Shakirat MADEIN has called for an improved participation of Women in Politics. 

She made the call while delivering her goodwill address at tge Ogun East Conference for Women, held on Thursday, 25th September, 2025 at the Akarigbo Palace Hall, Sagamu.

Dr. MADEIN drew attention to the underrepresentation of women in politics, citing that less than 35% of women in Nigeria are in politics, despite the United Nations’ recommendation of 35% affirmative action. She highlighted the irony that while women make up 62% of Nigeria’s population, their political participation remains below expectation.

Despite these gaps, she praised Nigerian women for making remarkable progress in other areas such as academics, education, career development, the public sector, and small and medium enterprises (SMEs). She challenged and inspired the participants as she reaffirmed the importance of women’s roles in nation-building.

Women are resilient, courageous, and capable of transforming society through leadership, innovation, and service,” she remarked, urging more women to step into politics and leadership positions at all levels.

The Accountant General also commended Ogun State leaders for appointing a female Deputy Governor and ensuring women’s representation at both the state and national assemblies, while calling for even greater inclusion. She expressed joy in being part of the gathering, describing it as a celebration of the resilience and determination of Ogun East women from the Remo and Ijebu communities.

She paid glowing tribute to trailblazers from Ogun such as Ambassador Falilat OGUNKOYA and also noted her own journey as the first female Accountant General of the Federation, both serving as examples of Ogun women who have broken barriers.

Dr. MADEIN, a fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria,  Fellow of the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria, as well as the Fellow of Association of Certified Chartered Accountants, and a winner of the Guardian Newspapers Seven Wonder Women Award, saluted Ogun women for their perseverance, courage, bravery, and commitment to positive change in their families, communities, and the nation at large.

This year’s conference, themed “Women in Leadership: Building Capacity, Enhancing Participation and Securing Tomorrow,” brought together leaders, professionals, entrepreneurs, and grassroots advocates in a vibrant exchange of ideas, celebrating women’s achievements and charting pathways for greater inclusion in governance and economic development.

Her goodwill message was warmly received, with participants describing her as a trailblazer whose career and accomplishments continue to inspire women across Nigeria and beyond.

The Ogun East Women Conference, the maiden edition is a gathering dedicated to advancing the cause of women in leadership, entrepreneurship, and social impact. It provides a unique platform for dialogue, networking, and capacity-building, and was convened by Amb. Lizzy JEKAMI, Governor's Liaison Officer, Sagamu Local Government.