Aspirant: I’m running to inspire women, girls into politics

As preparations for the 2027 general election gather momentum, an aspirant for the AMAC/Bwari Federal Constituency seat in the Federal Capital Territory, Hon. Sarah Ivie Adidi, says her decision to run is driven by a desire to inspire young women and girls to pursue political leadership. Adidi said her ambition is rooted in promoting inclusive […]

As preparations for the 2027 general election gather momentum, an aspirant for the AMAC/Bwari Federal Constituency seat in the Federal Capital Territory, Hon. Sarah Ivie Adidi, says her decision to run is driven by a desire to inspire young women and girls to pursue political leadership.

Adidi said her ambition is rooted in promoting inclusive leadership and equal representation, stressing that her journey should serve as proof that women can overcome barriers in politics.

She spoke over the weekend during an interaction with journalists in Abuja, where she outlined her background, motivations, and plans to introduce innovative, people-focused programmes in the constituency.

Reflecting on her early life, Adidi credited her mother for shaping her leadership outlook, noting that she was raised to believe that determination and focus can unlock any ambition. She said watching her mother’s career progression instilled in her values of discipline, hard work, and excellence, which have guided her personal and professional path.

Adidi holds a degree in Economics from Boston College, a Master’s in International Political Economy from King’s College London, and a postgraduate certification in Public Policy Analysis from the London School of Economics. While these experiences provided a strong academic foundation, she noted that her return to Africa exposed her to the complexities of governance beyond theory.

“What works in the West does not necessarily work in Africa,” she said.

She explained that her professional experience across several African countries has shaped her understanding of practical, context-driven policymaking, an approach she intends to apply in Nigeria.

Highlighting the potential of Nigerian youth, Adidi said many young people are talented but lack access to opportunities. She noted that her initiatives, particularly in digital skills development, are aimed at bridging this gap and preparing youths for a technology-driven global economy.

On women’s participation in politics, she identified structural and cultural barriers, including high campaign costs and entrenched perceptions of politics as male-dominated. She called for deliberate efforts to create a more inclusive political space.

“Women are not competing to replace men, but to complement and strengthen leadership collectively,” she said.

Adidi described the All Progressives Congress as a platform that is increasingly creating opportunities for young leaders, citing appointments of younger individuals into key positions as evidence.

On the current administration, she acknowledged challenges such as insecurity and rising living costs but said there have been measurable improvements, including stronger federal reserves and increased financial capacity for states to execute projects and meet obligations.

In the Federal Capital Territory, she noted progress in infrastructure and empowerment programmes for youths and women, adding that continuity would help consolidate existing gains.

“In Nigeria, anything is possible if you believe in yourself and have a clear vision,” she said.

Currently a Programme Coordinator in the Statistics Department of a development finance institution, Adidi emphasised the importance of data-driven governance, noting that policies must reflect both statistical realities and the lived experiences of citizens.

“Statistics tell a story, and behind every figure is a person,” she said.

Beyond her professional role, she has been active in youth development through the Youth in Parliament Forum, where she has promoted civic engagement and digital skills initiatives aimed at encouraging greater participation in governance.

Her contributions have earned her recognition as one of the 50 Outstanding Women of Excellence at the 2026 International Women’s Day celebration during the Her Excellence Conference and Awards.

Adidi said her candidacy is ultimately about inspiring others.

“I am running not just for myself, but for every woman and young girl who aspires to enter politics but feels discouraged. If I can do it, so can you,” she said.

She added that her blend of academic training, policy experience, and grassroots engagement positions her as part of a new generation of leaders seeking to redefine governance and encourage more women to step forward into leadership.