All Progressives Congress (APC), women have called on the leadership of the party to provide equal opportunities for women and men in the forthcoming Federal Capital Territory (FCT) elections.
Dr Mary Alile, APC National Women Leader, made the call when she received the FCT female aspirants from the six area council of the FCT in her office on Wednesday in Abuja.
She said that the decision of women to contest various positions in the upcoming FCT elections was a testament to the strength and determination of women to contribute to providing service to the people.
According to Alile, as the forthcoming chairmanship and councilors elections in FCT approach, it is imperative to recognise the vital roles women play in the party and society.
“Women are not just key stakeholders; they are leaders, innovators and change-makers who can significantly contribute to our vision for a prosperous and inclusive FCT.
“We urge the APC leadership, especially in the FCT to ensure that women are given equal opportunities to be flag bearers in these upcoming elections.”
The women leader said that it was essential to promote fair play and inclusivity, allowing talented and capable women to represent the party at all levels.
She said that supporting women candidates would inspire future generations and demonstrate dedication for a more equitable society.
Alile, commended the courage of some women contesting in the elections, adding that the impact of female leadership in transforming lives, advocating for justice and fostering inclusive growth is obvious.
She urged the women to support one another, adding that “When one woman rises, we all rise.
“Encourage your fellow aspirants, share your experiences and collaborate to create a united front.”
She pledged her support for their aspirations and promised to work tirelessly to create an environment where women would feel empowered to lead without barriers.
Alile also promised to establish mentorship programmes, provide resources and advocate for policies that promote gender equality in leadership positions.
She commended President Bola Tinubu for believing in the potentials of women across Nigeria and for his unwavering commitment to empowering women since he took over the presidency.
Also speaking, the APC FCT Women Leader, Hajiya Salamatu Jibrin, commended Alile for championing the course of women nationally.
Earlier, a Councillorship aspirant, Rejoice Yakubu, at Kuduru Ward, Bwari Area Council, appreciated President Tinubu for his favourable disposition in the appointments of women in government.
Yakubu, however, appealed that women should be supported for the FCT elections to make their voices to be heard.
“We are pleading for more positions especially during the FCT elections for our voices to be heard this time around. We play key roles at the grassroots and help in stimulating economic activities in the communities.
“We have 62 wards in the FCT; however, it is not all the 62 wards that we are aspiring for, and it is just a few of them.
“So we are pleading for your help as our mother and our mouthpiece, to speak on our behalf to the father of our nation, President Tinubu to look into this appeal and give us level playing grounds to compete with the men contestants,” she said.
A Chairmanship aspirant, Jennifer Nnamudi, from Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), said that women were not dragging seats with men, but are only seeking to uphold the 35 per cent affirmative action. (NAN)
