All Progressives Congress Leader Wants More Women In Party’s Caucus

National women leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr Mary Alile Idele, has called for increased female participation in Nigeria’s political space, particularly within party caucuses and leadership structures.

At the 14th meeting of the APC National Caucus in Abuja on Thursday, President Bola Tinubu said, “We need more women in this caucus. I think we should make provisions for that.”

In her reaction, Idele said the President’s remark was a candid acknowledgement that had reignited national debate on gender equity and validated years of policy-driven advocacy by women leaders.
She noted that women make up about 49 to 50 per cent of Nigeria’s population but account for less than 10 per cent of political party leadership positions.

According to her, women also occupy barely four per cent of seats in the National Assembly in recent electoral cycles.

“The President’s words should serve as a catalyst,” Idele said.

She urged political parties to deliberately groom female leaders, lower entry barriers, and create enabling environments for women to thrive politically.

Idele described the imbalance in party caucuses and strategic committees as a reflection of structural exclusion and missed opportunities.

“These figures are not just statistics; they represent muted voices and lost potential,” she added.The APC women’s leader said that global and regional studies consistently showed that women in leadership improved policy balance, social investment and accountability.

She argued that inclusive governance produced better outcomes in education, health and economic development.

Idele said Tinubu’s acknowledgement underscored that gender imbalance was systemic, driven by cultural barriers, financial constraints and institutional practices.

She added that the statement had been welcomed by women leaders and advocates nationwide as an opportunity to push for affirmative action, capacity building and internal party reforms.