Olawunmi Ajibike
More than 5,000 women in Ogun State have thrown their weight behind Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of future elections, while also backing Governor Dapo Abiodun for a potential senatorial bid, as they push for stronger female inclusion in Nigeria’s political landscape.
The declaration was made during the 2026 International Women’s Day celebration held in Ijebu-Ode, where women leaders from all 20 local government areas convened to deliberate on their role in governance and national development.
Speaking at the gathering, the Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Noimot Salako-Oyedele, reaffirmed the commitment of women in the state to support the Tinubu administration, citing policies she described as inclusive and impactful for women.
She noted that initiatives introduced at both federal and state levels have expanded women’s access to economic opportunities and participation in governance, adding that Ogun women are ready to sustain their backing for continuity.
Also addressing the audience, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Motunrayo Adijat Adeleye, said the impressive turnout underscored growing unity and influence among women in public life. She pointed out that the event coincided with activities marking Ogun State’s 50th anniversary, celebrating women’s enduring contributions to development.
Adeleye commended policies of the current administrations for fostering inclusion and economic recovery, while also acknowledging the efforts of Oluremi Tinubu through her Renewed Hope Initiative, alongside programmes spearheaded by the Ogun State First Lady.
She urged women to convert their numerical strength into political power by actively engaging in the electoral process, emphasizing the need for voter registration and collective action.
In her keynote address, former Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Abiodun Olujimi, described the theme of the event as timely and called for urgent reforms to tackle the underrepresentation of women in politics.
Olujimi lamented that women occupy only a small fraction of political offices nationwide, stressing that the imbalance requires deliberate and collective efforts to overcome. She encouraged women to support credible leaders and work together to dismantle structural barriers hindering their advancement.
The event concluded with a renewed commitment to unity among women and a shared resolve to play a more decisive role in shaping Nigeria’s political future.