By Mercy Gadia Adi
…Women leaders from across Nigeria call for special seats, inclusion policies, and increased political participation at a national debate hosted by African Mothers Initiative in Abuja.
A powerful call for gender-inclusive governance echoed across Abuja this week as the African Mothers Initiative, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and the Office of the Wife of the Governor of Cross River State, hosted a landmark All-Women Interstate Debate with the theme: “Promoting the Intellectual Capacity of Women for Better Political Participation.”
The two-day event brought together women coordinators, activists, and leaders from across Nigeria to address systemic political marginalization and the urgent need to create spaces for women in decision-making positions.
“We are not ready yet, but we’re coming together,” said Mrs. Margaret, convener of the event and President of the African Mothers Initiative.
“This is more than just a debate—it’s a political awakening. Our goal is to empower women intellectually and promote acceptable cultural heritage while pushing for inclusive governance.”
Margaret explained that the debate is one of four key programs under the national body, alongside the ARMY Reality TV Show, All-Men Interstate Debate, Farmers Trade Fair, and a Mental Health Check program for women.
She noted that the event featured experts from the National Human Rights Commission, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and other institutions to expose women to the workings of Nigeria’s political system.
“Every woman watching us today will learn something valuable, We want to build a politically aware and engaged generation of women leaders,”she added.
At the event, the Convener Also announced plans to submit a formal communiqué to the President, Vice President, and Speaker of the House of Representatives.
“We are demanding two key things,” Margaret said. “One: special seats for women in state and national assemblies. Two: inclusion policies that open doors for qualified women to serve at all levels of governance.”
Speaking with some participants, Mrs. Pauline Sharma, Coordinator of African Mothers Initiative, Nasarawa State Chapter, described the program as transformational.
“Most women are left behind and relegated to the background, When men make decisions, we’re forced to accept the outcome. That must change. Women must be self-reliant and politically empowered,”she said.
From Kaduna State, Angela highlighted the regional disparities women face in political inclusion.
“In many states, including Kaduna, women are not even considered. But by 2027, we want to see women represented in every government structure. We’re done waiting—we’ll fight for ourselves.”
Mrs. Church Juliana, Coordinator from Delta State, emphasized the untapped potential of educated women forced into informal labor.
“Many women with degrees are selling oranges in the market, We want them in government, in the Senate, in leadership—not just the kitchen,” she said.
Ambassador Princess Olayinka Ondo State and Southwest Coordinator, delivered an emotional appeal for equitable opportunity.
“Men have been given the chance, and they have failed. Let’s try the women, We’ve not even been given a fair shot. Give us that, and then judge our results,”she said.
She praised the initiative’s leadership and urged state and federal authorities to work closely with women’s organizations to bring these demands to reality.
“This program is an eye opener. It’s not just about empowerment—it’s about justice, responsibility, and securing the future for our children.”
As Nigeria gears up for its next electoral cycle, the voices of women from this debate are gaining momentum. The unified message from the All-Women Interstate Debate is clear: political inclusion is no longer a request—it is a demand.