PDP Chairman Calls for Female President in Nigeria, Criticizing Male Leadership
The National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Umar Damagum, has expressed the hope that the next president of Nigeria should be a woman, saying men have failed Nigerians.
Damagum stated this at an event to commemorate the 2024 International Women’s Day celebration at the party headquarters in Abuja.
The Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), voiced his support for a female president in Nigeria, citing perceived failures by male leaders in addressing the nation’s challenges
Damagum, represented by the PDP National Secretary, Samuel Anyanwu, stressed the significant role of mothers and women, stating that it cannot be overstated while highlighting the PDP as the sole party providing opportunities for women to succeed
“The significance of mothers and the role of women cannot be overstated. Let me be sincere with you, I pray and hope that, even if not in our generation, one day a woman will become the president of this country. I say this with utmost sincerity and from the depth of my heart because I believe that the men have failed this generation,” he said.
“In politics, that’s why the founding fathers of PDP recognize the importance of women. Today, in Nigeria, no matter how you look at it, PDP is the most democratic party in Nigeria and Africa. It’s the only party that provides women with the opportunity to aspire to any position without having to buy any form. We do this to encourage women.”
Earlier, PDP National Woman Leader, Amina Divine Arong, emphasized that achieving gender equality in political participation and leadership is essential for reaching sustainable development goals by 2030.
Arong said despite women being recognized as influential catalysts for positive change with demonstrated advantages, women still face significant underrepresentation in politics and other fields.
She said: “The importance of having women in leadership positions cannot be over-emphasized as result has shown clearly that Companies and organizations led by women seem to have fared better than their counterparts during times of financial crisis
Having women as leaders and decision-makers at all levels is critical to advancing gender justice, and gender equality and furthers economic, social, and political progress for all.
“While it is important that we continue to advocate for the active participation of women in politics in Nigeria, it is also very key that we imbibe the culture of actively supporting women and girls into leadership positions as well as involve them in decision-making processes.”
This call for a female president reflects growing sentiments within the political landscape for gender inclusivity and diversity in Nigeria’s highest office.
She stressed that women need to be inspired to pursue leadership roles and must be adequately trained, prepared, and capable of fulfilling such positions.
She added that women already in leadership roles should facilitate access to opportunities for growth and development.
