The National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, Umar Damagum, has expressed the hope that the next president of Nigeria should be a woman.
This is as Damagun noted that men have let down the current generation of Nigerians.
Damagum, represented by the PDP National Secretary, Samuel Anyanwu, made this statement during the PDP International Women’s Day 2024 celebration at the party’s national headquarters in Abuja on Friday.
He stressed the significant role of mothers and women, stating that it cannot be overstated while highlighting PDP as the sole party providing opportunities for women to succeed.
PDP National Chairman stated, “The significance of mothers and the role of a Woman 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.”
Also, Amina Divine Arong, the National Woman Leader of the PDP, stressed the significance of attaining gender parity in political engagement and leadership to meet the sustainable development objectives by 2030.
Arong pointed out that women continue to encounter underrepresentation in both politics and various other sectors.
She said, “The importance of having a Woman in leadership positions cannot be overemphasized 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.”
“We must end discrimination against working mothers and break down maternal walls which are prejudices faced by working mothers and women seeking jobs.
“Empower women to be financially independent and also create a monetary scheme that allows women to generate funds as a means of support for women who intend to run for elective offices.
“Appointment and Elective positions within the party must be seen to reflect the 35% affirmative action enshrined in party constitutions and should not be restricted to only a position.”
“Young women and girls must be groomed and encouraged not maligned and shut out of the political space. Getting them involved in projects, programs, Party activities and processes and affording them the opportunity to play key roles within the party will go a long way to motivate and prepare them for effective leadership,” she added. #Woman
