Peter Obi has called for at least 25% women’s representation in governance, citing persistent gender inequality in Nigeria. He highlighted challenges such as poverty, poor healthcare, and political discrimination, referencing Senators Ireti Kingibe and Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan as examples of female leaders facing hostility despite winning elections.
As Nigeria marked International Women’s Day 2025, former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi renewed calls for gender equality, urging the government to ensure at least 25% representation for women in governance.
In a statement on Saturday, Obi underscored the critical need for increased investment in girl-child education and women’s empowerment to break cycles of poverty and systemic exclusion. He lamented the harsh conditions women face, citing limited access to healthcare, high infant mortality rates, and educational disadvantages that leave many girls vulnerable to violence and abduction.
Obi also addressed the underrepresentation of women in leadership, criticizing Nigeria’s political structure for actively sidelining female politicians. He pointed to Senators Ireti Kingibe and Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan as examples of women who, despite winning elections, continue to face hostility and discrimination.
“Even for the few women who break through these systemic barriers and secure positions of power, the challenges are relentless,” Obi said, urging policymakers to take decisive action to guarantee equitable opportunities for women in all sectors.
He emphasized that without concrete policies enforcing gender inclusion, women will remain marginalized in both elective and appointive positions. Obi called for urgent reforms to ensure fair representation, arguing that Nigeria’s progress hinges on empowering women and securing their place in leadership.
