Ashiru Advocates 35% Female Representation in Water Sector

Deji Ashiru, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Ogun Oshun River Basin Development Authority, has called on the National Assembly to amend the River Basin Development Authority Act to mandate a minimum of 35% female representation on boards, technical committees, and statutory advisory bodies within the water sector. Speaking in Abeokuta, Ogun State, during a keynote address for the 2026 World Water Day, Ashiru highlighted that women and girls bear an estimated 72% of the water collection burden in households lacking proper water access.

He noted that their voices are often absent in policy formulation, which affects water management decisions. Ashiru emphasized that gender inclusivity in water governance is not just a matter of human rights but also essential for effective water resource management.

He urged the National Assembly to ensure legal enforcement of gender representation standards, as current voluntary commitments have proven insufficient. Governor Dapo Abiodun supported Ashiru's call for gender inclusivity in water governance.