Women are increasingly taking the lead in politics, which has traditionally been dominated by men. Having women in politics is about more than simply equity; it is also crucial to ensure that everyone is represented.
Gender equality is that everyone, regardless of gender, should have a voice in decisions that impact them. As our society transforms, it is apparent that women bring important new ideas and solutions to the table.
Women have faced numerous hurdles in entering politics, ranging from societal expectations to systemic barriers. However, the increasing number of women standing for office is a healthy shift toward more inclusive leadership.
Women prioritize topics such as family support, education, and healthcare, which are sometimes disregarded.
Having more women in politics is beneficial to everyone. Diverse leaders consider a broader variety of topics and develop better solutions. As women continue to push the boundaries, their participation in politics is critical for attaining gender equality and ensuring that all views are heard.
Here are 6 women who have attempted to become president in Nigeria.
1. Uju Ohanenye
Uju Ohanenye, a lawyer and entrepreneur, was the All Progressives Congress (APC)’s first female presidential candidate for the 2023 elections. She later withdrew to endorse Bola Tinubu. Ohanenye’s professional background includes law, real estate, and the film industry, and she was appointed Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development in 2023.
2. Khadijah Okunnu-Lamidi
Khadijah Okunnu-Lamidi is a media personality who advocates for youth development. She announced her intention to run for president in the 2023 election. Okunnu-Lamidi, who has a background in business management and strategic project management, also founded Slice Media Solutions.
3. Oby Ezekwesili
Oby Ezekwesili, a former Minister of Education and activist, campaigned for president in the 2019 elections on behalf of the Allied Congress Party of Nigeria (ACPN). Her campaign focused on anti-corruption and educational reform.
With her experience as a Vice President of the World Bank, Ezekwesili brought valuable expertise to her presidential campaign, arguing for better governance and accountability.
4. Eunice Atuejide
Eunice Atuejide, the founder of the National Interest Party (NIP), ran for president in the 2019 election. She has a wide educational background, including degrees in agricultural economics, business administration, and law.
Atuejide has previously worked in IT consulting and the entertainment industry. Her candidacy emphasized reform and introduced a new, vibrant perspective to Nigerian politics.
5. Remi Sonaiya
Remi Sonaiya became Nigeria’s only female presidential contender in the 2015 elections, running for the KOWA Party. A distinguished professor with a background of teaching at Obafemi Awolowo University,
Sonaiya also worked as an Ambassador Scientist for the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation. In 2010, she joined the KOWA Party and later became its National Public Relations Officer, starting her political career.
6. Sarah Jibril
Sarah Jibril is a pioneer in Nigerian politics, having been the first woman to run for president in 1992. Her public service career began when she was appointed commissioner of social development, youth, and sports in Kwara State.
She also served as President Goodluck Jonathan’s Special Advisor for Ethics and Moral Values. Jibril has run for president several times, supporting the rights of women and children.
