TOS Foundation Africa, in partnership with the Embassy of Switzerland in Nigeria, has launched the HerCademy Legislative Mentorship Programme to equip Nigerian women with the skills, knowledge, and support needed to pursue public office and lead effectively within legislative systems.
The six-week programme brings together aspiring female leaders from across Nigeria for intensive training, mentorship, and legislative simulations designed to build real capacity for governance and policy-making.
Speaking in Abuja, the founder of TOS Foundation Africa, Osasu Igbinedion-Ogwuche, said the initiative focuses on preparing women not just to participate in politics, but to lead with confidence and competence. “Nigeria does not lack capable women. What we lack are systems that expect women to lead and structures that support them to win and govern effectively,” she said.
She added that the programme goes beyond symbolic inclusion. “This is not just about participation; it is about power equipping women to understand how laws are made, how systems work, and how to lead with competence and clarity once they are in the room.”
Switzerland’s Chargé d’Affaires to Nigeria, Siamak Rouhani, highlighted the urgency of such interventions, noting that women make up less than 5% of Nigeria’s National Assembly. “By investing in these aspiring parliamentarians, we are advancing inclusive governance as the backbone of a stable and prosperous society,” he said.
During a fireside session, British Deputy High Commissioner Gill Lever stressed the importance of effectiveness in leadership. “Influence is not just about winning a seat. Effective leadership is what you do after you get the title how you deliver outcomes in systems not designed for you,” she said.
Facilitators, including Chidozie Aja and Osasuyi Dirisu, are leading sessions on legislative processes, policy development, and political strategy.
