The head of the Peoples Democratic Party, Umar Damagum, expressed his wish for the next president of Nigeria to be a woman.
Damagun pointed out that men have disappointed the current generation of Nigerians.
Represented by the PDP National Secretary, Samuel Anyanwu, Damagum made this statement during the PDP International Women’s Day 2024 celebration at the party’s national headquarters in Abuja on Friday.
IWD is a worldwide event that celebrates women’s accomplishments in social, economic, cultural, and political areas, while also promoting gender equality.
It inspires various activities globally, uniting communities to acknowledge women’s achievements and defend their rights to equality.
It is observed annually on March 8. The official theme for the day according to the United Nations is ‘Invest in Women: Accelerate progress’.
The PDP’s sub-theme, “Empowering Women and Girls for Political Leadership,” stems from the urgent call and campaign for increased female participation in politics.
Damagum emphasized the vital 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 PDP National Chairman stated, “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.
“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, emphasised that achieving gender equality in political participation and leadership is crucial for attaining sustainable development goals by 2030.
Arong stated that despite women being acknowledged as influential catalysts for positive change with proven advantages, women still encounter significant underrepresentation in politics and other fields.
She noted, “The importance of having women in leadership positions cannot be overemphasized as it has been clearly shown that companies and organizations led by women tend to have performed better than their counterparts during times of financial crisis. Having women as leaders and decision-makers at all levels is crucial for advancing gender justice, and gender equality and promotes 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 important that we adopt the culture of actively supporting women and girls into leadership positions as well as involving them in decision-making processes.”
She emphasized that women must feel motivated to seek leadership positions and should be well trained, prepared, and capable of handling such roles.
She mentioned that women who are already in leadership positions should help others access opportunities for growth and progress.
She said, “We need to stop discrimination against working mothers and break down the barriers faced by working mothers and women looking for jobs.
“Give women the ability to support themselves financially and also establish a financial system that enables women to raise funds to support those who want to run for public offices.
“Positions within the party, whether appointed or elected, should show the 35% affirmative action specified in party constitutions and should not be limited to a single position.
“Young women and girls should be mentored and encouraged rather than criticized and excluded from the political sphere. Involving them in projects, programs, party activities, and processes, and giving them the chance to take on important roles within the party will greatly motivate and prepare them for effective leadership.
