The National Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress, Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, has assured Nigerian women of increased participation and inclusion in governance, declaring that the party is determined to secure more elective and appointive positions for women in future political arrangements.
Yilwatda gave the assurance on Tuesday while hosting the APC National Women Leader, Mary Alile Idele, alongside the six zonal women leaders and state women leaders from across the federation at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja. Addressing the delegation during the meeting, the APC national chairman praised the dedication, sacrifices and unwavering loyalty of women within the party structure, describing them as the backbone of the party’s successes over the years.
According to him, women have consistently demonstrated resilience and commitment during electioneering campaigns, party mobilisation activities and governance processes across the country. “You are the pillars of this party in rain and sunshine. During campaigns, you are there. During elections, you are there. In virtually every activity of the party, you are always present and actively involved,” Yilwatda said.
The APC chairman acknowledged the crucial role women continue to play in strengthening democratic participation and grassroots political engagement, stressing that the party cannot afford to ignore their contributions. He assured the women leaders that the APC leadership is committed to creating more opportunities for women to emerge as political office holders at both state and national levels.
According to him, the party recognises the need for broader gender inclusion in governance and decision-making processes, adding that empowering women politically would contribute significantly to national development. Yilwatda stated that the APC would continue to support policies and internal reforms aimed at encouraging greater female participation in politics, leadership and governance.
He further noted that women possess leadership qualities capable of transforming communities and improving governance outcomes, insisting that their increased involvement in public service would strengthen democracy and promote inclusiveness.
The APC chairman also commended the women wing of the party for remaining steadfast and supportive despite political challenges, saying their commitment has contributed immensely to the party’s electoral victories across different parts of the country. He urged the women leaders to sustain their mobilisation efforts at the grassroots level while continuing to promote unity and stability within the party.
Yilwatda further encouraged women to remain actively involved in political activities and take advantage of opportunities that would be created ahead of future elections. Speaking earlier during the meeting, APC National Women Leader Mary Alile Idele expressed appreciation to the party leadership for recognising the contributions of women within the APC.
She reiterated the commitment of women members to continue supporting the party and strengthening its structures across the federation.
Idele also appealed for more representation of women in strategic political appointments and elective offices, noting that women have consistently demonstrated competence and dedication in leadership positions. Some of the women leaders present at the meeting reportedly highlighted the challenges confronting female politicians in Nigeria, including limited access to political funding, cultural barriers and under representation in governance.
They called on the party leadership to implement policies that would guarantee fair opportunities for women seeking elective offices and leadership positions within the APC structure. Political observers say the renewed emphasis on women inclusion reflects growing conversations across Nigeria on the need for increased gender representation in politics and governance.
Over the years, advocacy groups and civil society organisations have continued to push for more participation of women in leadership, arguing that inclusive governance remains essential for sustainable democratic development.
The APC leadership’s latest assurance is expected to further energise women members of the party ahead of future political activities and electoral contests across the country.
