Women have been urged not to take back seats but participate actively in shaping politics in 2027. Women empowerment advocate and entrepreneur, Mrs. Omolara Kafilat Svenson Busari; Oyo State All Progressives Congress (APC) Women Leader, Alhaja Tinuade Adigun; the APC Women Leader in Egbeda local council of the state, Aderonke Adedeji, made the call during the third edition of the Women in Politics Sensitisation programme in Ibadan, Oyo State capital.
The initiative, themed, “Understanding Our Role in Active Politics”, was spearheaded by Mrs. Busari. The programme was a rallying call to empower women, dismantle long-standing barriers, cultivate leadership, and foster inclusive governance.
In her keynote address, Busari decried the continued under-representation of women in Nigeria’s political landscape, particularly in Oyo State. She emphasised that the marginalisation of women in decision-making roles is a critical factor stalling national development.
She said: “My target is to see more women in active politics. I want to see more women running for elective offices, especially in Oyo State. This programme is not politically funded. It’s a product of personal commitment and contributions from like-minded individuals determined to change the narrative.”
Busari noted that Oyo State lags behind in terms of women’s political engagement, both in elective and appointive positions. “One of the reasons we are where we are as a nation is because women have not been fully included in the decision-making process. That’s the bitter truth, and that must change.”
Adigun, highlighted the importance of spousal support and community encouragement in boosting women’s participation. “This kind of programme will go a long way in mobilising women into politics and encouraging their husbands to support their aspirations. When women are absent from the decision-making table, the nation suffers. Their voices are needed more than ever,’’ she said.
While Adedeji, emphasised the programme’s focus on educating women about their political rights. “We are sensitising women on their fundamental rights as Nigerian citizens, encouraging them to step forward, get involved in politics, and demand their rightful place in governance. Once they show interest, the support system will follow.”
