The Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Engr Noimot Salako-Oyedele, has called on women in governance to advocate for legislative reforms aimed at dismantling systemic barriers that prevent gender parity in Nigeria’s political landscape.
She emphasized that achieving gender equality in leadership roles requires targeted legislative efforts and supportive political networks.
Salako-Oyedele made this call during her keynote address at the APC Women Summit and Dialogue held at the Banquet Hall, Aso Rock Villa, Abuja.
With the theme “Empowering the Next Generation of Female Leaders: Building Political Networks for Collective Success,” the summit gathered prominent female leaders and stakeholders focused on enhancing female representation in governance.
In her address, Salako-Oyedele underscored the responsibility of current female leaders to pave a smoother path for upcoming generations, stressing that true progress involves making it easier for young women to ascend into leadership.
She noted, “Our presence in politics today is no accident. It is the outcome of the relentless efforts of resilient women who, despite facing societal resistance, exclusion, and often hostility, persisted so we could have the opportunities we do today.”
Salako-Oyedele highlighted the significance of gender-responsive policies, arguing that effective advocacy must prioritize representation and provide platforms for real change.
She further illustrated her point with the example of Ogun State, where Governor Dapo Abiodun’s commitment to gender diversity led to her appointment as his running mate. This, she said, exemplified how inclusive leadership can set a positive precedent.
“Men who support gender diversity understand that advancing women is not a zero-sum game but a collective benefit for society,” she added.
“Their partnership is a reminder that promoting women in leadership requires collaboration to ensure they have the opportunities they deserve.”
Salako-Oyedele commended the APC Women’s leadership, led by Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, and National Woman Leader Dr. Mary Idele Alile, for prioritizing women’s voices in the party’s agenda.
She described the summit as a valuable opportunity to strategize on the next steps for women’s empowerment within the political sphere.
First Lady Oluremi Tinubu also addressed the attendees, emphasizing the core qualities of good leadership, such as integrity, hard work, and compassion.
She encouraged women to support one another and rally behind those seeking elective positions, urging them to discard imaginary limitations and focus on their inherent strengths.
“Supporting each other one woman at a time will shape the future of women in politics,” Tinubu remarked.
She further urged the APC National Woman Leader to collaborate with state counterparts to propose legislative measures that would increase the number of women in the National Assembly, thereby advancing the representation of women across government.
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