Deputy Governor Salako-Oyedele Advocates for Women’s Inclusion in Politics
Ogun State Deputy Governor, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, has emphasized that women’s participation in politics is not a zero-sum game but an essential step towards building an inclusive and progressive society.
Speaking at the Nigerian Women Leadership and Empowerment Conference 2025 held at the NAF Conference Center, Abuja, and organized by the House of Representatives Committee on Women Affairs and Social Development, the deputy governor stressed the need for alliances across gender lines rather than viewing politics as a competition between men and women.
“If we truly want to build a Nigeria where opportunity is available to all, then we must see women in politics not as competitors but as partners in progress. Increasing women’s representation does not take power away from men; rather, it creates a more balanced and effective government,” she said.
Salako-Oyedele highlighted key challenges hindering women’s political participation, including structural barriers, limited funding, cultural norms, and electoral violence, and called for affirmative action within major political parties, continuous political engagement, and strategic positioning of women for leadership roles.
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abass, reaffirmed the legislature’s commitment to strengthening gender policies, protecting women from political violence, and ensuring fair representation within party structures.
The Chairman, House Committee on Women Affairs, Hon. Kafilat Adetola Ogbara, announced plans to launch a National Compendium for Women in Leadership Positions, a publication that will document and celebrate women’s contributions across various sectors.
“As women, we must advocate for gender-inclusive policies, empower one another, and ensure that every woman’s voice is heard and respected,” Ogbara said.
