Ogun Deputy Gov. urges women to champion legislative reforms for gender parity
By Omobolaji Adekunle
Ogun State Deputy Governor, Engr.Noimot Salako-Oyedele, has called on women in governance to continue advocating for legislative reforms that will dismantle systemic barriers to achieving gender parity in Nigeria.
She delivered this message in her keynote address at the APC Women Summit and Dialogue, themed “Empowering the Next Generation of Female Leaders: Building Political Networks for Collective Success,” held at the Aso Rock Villa in Abuja.
Salako-Oyedele emphasised that one of the key responsibilities of women in governance today is to empower future female leaders, highlighting the need to create a smoother path to leadership for them compared to previous generations.
“Our presence in politics today is not by accident; it is the result of the tireless efforts of strong women who came before us and, despite facing incredible challenges—such as societal resistance, exclusion, and hostility—pressed on for our opportunities,” she stated.
She stressed the importance of maintaining the struggle for gender-responsive policies at the forefront of advocacy, noting that representation matters and that power and platforms are essential for driving real change.
In discussing the role of supportive men, she cited the example of Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, who recognised the need for gender diversity by consciously selecting a woman as his running mate, resulting in her own emergence as Deputy Governor. She noted that such partnerships highlight that advancing women’s leadership is a collaborative effort that benefits society as a whole.
Salako-Oyedele also acknowledged the leadership of APC women, particularly First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu and National Woman Leader Dr. Mary Idele Alile, for their efforts in elevating women’s voices within the party. She described this as a crucial time to reflect, engage, and strategize on the future of women in leadership and politics in Nigeria.
In her remarks, Senator Oluremi Tinubu spoke on the qualities of good leadership for women, including integrity, hard work, and compassion. She encouraged attendees to support other women seeking elective positions and to avoid self-imposed limitations.
“By focusing on your innate potential, persevering, and supporting one another, you can help shape the future of women in politics, one woman at a time,” she said.
Senator Tinubu also urged the National Woman Leader and other APC state women leaders to collaborate in presenting a proposal to the National Assembly aimed at increasing the quota of women in legislative seats.
