Ideato North: Okafor Joins Reps Race, Tests Push For Women, Youth Inclusion

Dr. Ngozi Okafor, an organisational psychologist and youth development advocate, has declared her intention to contest for a seat in the House of Representatives for Ideato North Federal Constituency under the All Progressives Congress (APC). Her entry into the race brings renewed focus to ongoing conversations around women and youth participation in Nigerian politics, years […]

Dr. Ngozi Okafor, an organisational psychologist and youth development advocate, has declared her intention to contest for a seat in the House of Representatives for Ideato North Federal Constituency under the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Her entry into the race brings renewed focus to ongoing conversations around women and youth participation in Nigerian politics, years after the passage of the Not Too Young to Run Act.

Okafor, who also serves as National Director of Media Relations and Stakeholder Engagement at the City Boy Movement, said her decision aligns with a broader push to deepen representation and expand citizen participation in governance.

“Nigeria is on a recovery journey,” she said. “It is challenging, but the outcome is worth fighting for.”

According to a statement announcing her ambition, Okafor’s candidacy is anchored on her longstanding involvement in youth empowerment and public engagement. Through her foundation at the University of Abuja, she has supported students with scholarships and mentorship programmes, while also providing information and advisory services.

The statement noted that her national role has exposed her to citizen concerns and expectations at a time when more Nigerians are seeking a stronger voice in governance.

It also referenced recent policy initiatives as signs of progress in key sectors, including the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), support for small businesses through SMEDAN and SEDC, and interventions aimed at reducing transportation and energy costs.

While the APC has expressed commitment to increasing female and youth participation, Okafor’s candidacy is expected to test how such commitments translate into electoral opportunities.

Observers say the Ideato North contest could serve as a gauge of how political parties are responding to calls for more inclusive representation ahead of future elections.