Niger LG elections: Governor Bago makes case for women Vice Chairmen

• Reiterates his administration’s commitment to women in leadership

From John Adams, Minna

The Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, has made a strong case for women to take an active part in positions of leadership in the country and has vowed that women will occupy all vice chairmanship positions in the forthcoming local government elections in the state.

The Governor, who reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to women’s inclusion in governance, said that he will personally push for women in the state to occupy the vice-chairmanship positions in all 25 Local Government Areas (LGAs) in the November local government elections.

A statement by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Print Media, Aisha Wakaso, in Minna on Thursday, 13 March 2025, quoted the Governor as saying that women have been relegated to the background for too long, despite their immense contributions to society.

According to Wakaso, Governor Bago, who has consistently championed gender inclusivity, believes that women’s inclusion in governance should not be a mere pronouncement, stressing, ‘The time to match words with action is now.’

The Governor maintained that ‘women are pivotal to the growth and development of the country, and when given the opportunity, they possess the capacity to drive meaningful progress and transformation.’

Bago stated further that ‘women’s leadership potential is undeniable, and as such, they should be given a prominent role in nation-building.’ According to him, empowering women at the local government level is not just a matter of fairness but a strategic move to foster sustainable development across the state and the country at large.

‘This is not just about fulfilling a quota; it is about recognising the strength, resilience, and intelligence of our women,’ Governor Bago said, adding further that ‘Women have the capacity, and they should be given a chance. When included in governance, they bring balance, innovation, and a unique perspective that is crucial for development.’

Governor Bago reaffirmed that his administration remains committed to breaking barriers for women in leadership and ensuring they take their rightful place in decision-making processes, especially as it affects them. He called on stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) across the state to support this initiative, as it aligns with best practices for inclusive governance and sustainable development.