Governance: Ex-minister urges Tinubu to expand women’s role in leadership

Former Minister of Aviation and ex-Nigerian Ambassador to Ireland, Dr. Kema Chikwe, has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to expand women’s participation in governance as the country heads toward the 2027 elections. Speaking in Abuja on Tuesday at the eighth anniversary of the Women Leadership Institute (WLI), which she convenes, Chikwe praised the President’s policy […]

Former Minister of Aviation and ex-Nigerian Ambassador to Ireland, Dr. Kema Chikwe, has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to expand women’s participation in governance as the country heads toward the 2027 elections.

Speaking in Abuja on Tuesday at the eighth anniversary of the Women Leadership Institute (WLI), which she convenes, Chikwe praised the President’s policy direction, particularly his recent directive to state governors on poverty alleviation, power, and agriculture. She, however, stressed that women should not only be beneficiaries of such policies but active participants in their formulation and execution.

“The absence of women in legislative spaces means fewer voices to champion gender equity, social justice, and inclusive policies,” she said. “I appeal most earnestly as you embark on what we believe should be your well-deserved second term: carry more women with you. Let your legacy reflect a genuine commitment to gender inclusion.”

Chikwe, who disclosed that she has retired from partisan politics, lamented the “negligible and deeply troubling” number of women in the current National Assembly. She emphasized that when women and men lead together, nations thrive, noting that “the power of partnership is real, and when purpose meets action, transformation follows.”

Looking ahead, she announced that the Women Leadership Institute is evolving into a full-fledged university, a move aimed at institutionalizing leadership development for women across generations.

Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Cecilia Umoren urged women to shun divisive narratives and political gimmicks suggesting that women are their own worst enemies. She encouraged women to unite, participate actively in politics, and claim their space in national development.

“Women must recognize that politics remains the most effective fast track to achieving gender balance in leadership, especially in the legislature,” Umoren said. “We must begin to take the right political decisions now—decisions that will position us to make meaningful impact in the 2027 elections and beyond.”

In her opening remarks, former First Lady of Ekiti State, Erelu Bisi Fayemi, highlighted the value of partnerships in all spheres of life but noted that women must confront the structural challenges that continue to limit gender parity. She called for deliberate strategies to align with policies that promote the mainstreaming of women in leadership.