AMEF – Women for 35%

Constitution

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Constitution

Women for 35% An Initiative by AJU Morgan Elemelu Foundation
Responsibilities and Rules of Engagement

Theme:
Her Voice, Her Vote, Her Future

Published by:
The AJU Morgan Elumelu Foundation (AMEF)

Edition: July 2025

Contact:
šŸ“§ [email protected]
šŸŒ www.womenfor35.comĀ 
šŸ“ž +234 7085745465

Article 1: Name, Nature & Objectives

1.1 Name
The organization shall be known as Women for 35% (hereinafter referred to as ā€œthe Initiativeā€).

1.2 Nature
A non-partisan, not-for-profit civic movement committed to achieving at least 35% representation of women in elected, appointed, and party leadership positions in Nigeria.

1.3 Objectives

  • Advocate for constitutional and legislative adoption of 35% gender quotas.
  • Support the adoption of Special Seats, party parity, and removal of discriminatory laws.
  • Build awareness via media, research advocacy, and grassroots mobilization.
  • Develop womenā€™s leadership through training, mentorship, and public engagement.
  • Monitor implementation and hold institutions accountable to gender parity commitments.

Article 2: Membership

2.1 Eligibility
Open to women and supporting men aligned with the Initiativeā€™s vision.

2.2 Admission
Applications are submitted via the Coordinators and approved by the Board.

2.3 Rights & Duties
Members may vote, nominate, and serve. All members must uphold Initiative principles and ethics.

2.4 Code of Conduct
Members must promote respect, inclusion, and non-partisanship in all engagements.

2.5 Termination
Membership may be terminated due to resignation, violation of conduct, or non-engagement.

2.6 Fees
Membership is completely free. No membership fees or levies are required.

Article 3: Governance Bodies

3.1 The Board of Directors (AMEF)
The supreme decision-making body, responsible for strategic direction, policy, budget approvals, and leadership appointments.

3.2 National Steering Committee
Implements AMEF decision. Chaired by the Convener, includes Regional Ambassadors and Directors.

3.3 State/FCT Committees
Coordinate state-level programs, campaigns, and member engagement.

3.4 Secretariat
Administrative body led by the National Secretary, overseeing daily operations.

3.5 Leadership Structure
The leadership structure of Women for 35% shall maintain the existing leadership of the AJU Morgan Elumelu Foundation (AMEF), under whose platform this initiative was birthed.

3.6 Nature of Positions
All positions at the national, regional, and state levels are strictly voluntary. No member is entitled to a salary, allowance, or honorarium. All positions are assumed to have kicked off their term of service by June.

3.7 Term Duration
All elected or appointed positions are held for a one-year term, subject to review by the Board based on performance. Non-performing officers may be relieved or restructured accordingly.

3.8 General Meetings
All members are required to attend quarterly meetings to review progress, build cohesion, and contribute to strategic planning.

Article 4: Leadership Positions

4.1 National Officers

  • Chairperson (Convener)
  • Deputy Chairperson
  • National Secretary & Deputy
  • Treasurer
  • Director of Media & Advocacy
  • Director of Capacity Building
  • Regional Ambassadors (6 geopolitical zones)

4.2 State Officers

  • State Coordinator
  • State Secretary
  • Media & Advocacy Rep
  • Leadership Development Rep

Term: One year, with performance review and possible reappointment.

Article 5: Meetings & Elections

5.1 Annual General Meeting
Annual General Meeting convened for Nominations, reporting, and constitutional review. held quarterly

Article 6: Committees

  • Media & Advocacy
  • Policy & Research
  • Training & Leadership
  • Monitoring & Accountability
  • Finance & Fundraising

Each committee shall have a lead and a deputy appointed by the Board (AMEF).

Article 7: Finances & Audit

7.1 Funding Sources

For the purpose of raising and generating funds and other resources (in cash or in kind) for the realization of its aims and objectives, the foundation may:

  • Membership contributions (optional)
  • Event revenues
  • Solicit donations (whether cash and/or kind) from individuals, corporate bodies, foundations, and other organizations in Nigeria or elsewhere.
  • Receive grants, donations, or assistance from individuals, enterprises, institutions, societies, trusts, and other charitable or philanthropic organizations in Nigeria or elsewhere on the condition that such donations, grants, or assistance are made willingly by the donors.
  • Collect money and financial assistance from or by any other lawful source or means.

7.2 Financial Oversight
The treasurer maintains records. Expenditures require dual authorization. Annual external audits are mandatory. No member should on any account accept funds on behalf of women for 35% to their personal Bank account.

Article 8: Programs & Advocacy

  • Advocate for 35% implementation in policy and practice.
  • Conduct training and mentorship for aspiring women leaders.
  • Run campaigns, organize town halls, and media programs.
  • Publish Gender Parity Scorecards and advocacy papers.

Article 9: Partnerships

Collaborate with:

  • Political parties, electoral bodies
  • Civil society and international organizations (UN Women, FJNN)
  • Media platforms and academic institutions

Article 10: Legal Compliance & Dispute Resolution

11.1 Legal Status
Shall operate by CAC regulations and national laws.

11.2 Dispute Resolution
Handled by the Ethics Committee. The final appeal lies with the Board (AMEF)