Enugu, Nigeria – August 8, 2025 –
In a clarion call that echoed far beyond the walls of the Signature TV political forum, Dr. Nwakaego Maria Ajah, a respected educationist and board member of the Enugu State Universal Basic Education Board (ESUBEB), has urged Nigeria to close its widening political gender gap through merit-based inclusion and strategic mentorship for aspiring female leaders.

Speaking on the theme “Women Participation in Politics: Nigeria’s Political Gender Gap on the Front Burner”, the former Federal Government Public Works Committee member decried Nigeria’s global ranking, 178th out of 182 countries  in women’s political representation.

“Women are active in campaigns, yet absent at the decision-making table,” she said, highlighting stark statistics: only 4 out of 109 senators are women, and just 17 of 360 members in the House of Representatives are female, far short of the 30% representation target.

Dr. Nwakaego emphasized the transformative impact of gender-responsive governance, citing women’s empathy, problem-solving approach, and community focus as essential qualities in tackling poverty and societal challenges. She also addressed systemic obstacles including political violence, sexual harassment, and the subtle but damaging practice of women undermining each other.

Commending Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for her resilience in the face of intimidation, Dr. Nwakaego called for structured mentorship programs to nurture young women interested in politics. She insisted that leadership appointments should be earned on merit rather than offered as political tokenism.

Quoting her rallying message, she declared: “Women can change the narrative by demanding equity and equality, fully participating in leadership and decision-making at the same level as men, that is the true essence of democracy.”

Applauding Governor Dr. Peter Mbah of Enugu State for surpassing the 30% inclusion benchmark by appointing 51 women to strategic positions, she urged political parties nationwide to adopt global best practices from countries with higher female representation.

Closing with an uncompromising charge, Dr. Nwakaego affirmed: “Our quest for inclusion is not a privilege but a fundamental human right. We must claim our rightful place in shaping Nigeria’s future.”