On International Women’s Day, former presidential candidate Peter Obi has issued a powerful call to action, highlighting the persistent injustices faced by Nigerian women and demanding urgent reforms to break systemic barriers to their empowerment.
Obi, in a statement via his X-Handle marking the global celebration, lamented that despite the resilience of Nigerian women, many remain trapped in cycles of poverty, with limited access to healthcare, education, and leadership opportunities.
He pointed out that girls make up the majority of Nigeria’s out-of-school children, while women continue to suffer disproportionately from rising insecurity, including abductions and gender-based violence.
“The challenges women face in Nigeria are staggering. From high infant mortality rates due to poor healthcare access to the alarming underrepresentation in leadership, it is clear that we are failing to create an equitable society,” Obi stated.
He drew attention to the dire statistics: women hold just 6% of leadership positions in the private sector, while political representation has declined sharply, hitting its lowest level after the 2023 elections.
Even for those who overcome these odds, the road remains perilous.
“Senator Ireti Kingibe and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan are just two examples of women who, despite winning elections, continue to face relentless discrimination and hostility in public office,” he said, calling it a reflection of a political system that actively resists female inclusion.
Obi made a forceful case for affirmative action, advocating for a minimum of 25% female representation in all decision-making bodies—whether elective or appointive. He further urged aggressive investment in girl-child education, particularly in disadvantaged regions, as a critical step toward dismantling gender inequality.
“The time to act is now. Women are the backbone of our society, and the progress of our nation depends on ensuring they have equal opportunities to shape our collective future,” he declared.
With his closing remark, “A new Nigeria is POssible,” Obi reaffirmed his commitment to advancing women’s rights, urging immediate legislative and policy interventions to accelerate equality, empowerment, and lasting change.