The NGOs expressed their appreciation, highlighting that the inclusion of seven women in the list is an unprecedented step towards fulfilling President Tinubu's campaign promises of promoting gender equality and women's inclusion in his administration.
Ambassador Onyinye Mamah, the Executive Director of both organizations, released a statement on Thursday night in Enugu, commending the President's commitment to empowering women in governance and decision-making processes. She emphasized that this move signifies a major milestone for women since the return of democracy in 1999.
The seven women nominated for ministerial positions are as follows: Nkiruka Onyejiocha (Abia), Beta Edu (Cross River), Hannatu Musawa (Katsina), Doris Uzoka (Imo), Uju Kennedy Ohanenye (Anambra), and Stella Okotete (Delta), Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim (Plateau).
Ambassador Mamah asserted that these nominees are highly qualified for their roles and encouraged President Tinubu to appoint them as senior ministers, rather than ministers of State (Junior Ministers), as seen in previous administrations. This elevation would showcase the President's strong commitment to empowering women at the highest levels of decision-making.
Ambassador Mamah urged President Tinubu to follow through on his promise to include more women in future ministerial lists and other key appointments. She emphasized that this continued effort to increase women's representation in governance will pave the way for further opportunities for women to assume political leadership positions.
The Executive Director called upon state governors across the nation, with a special appeal to the Enugu State governor, to emulate President Tinubu's example and appoint more women in their Executive Cabinets. She stressed that diversity in leadership leads to more inclusive policies and a better representation of the populace.
The inclusion of seven women in the ministerial list has been widely applauded by various women's groups and citizens alike, who see it as a significant step towards achieving gender parity and women's empowerment in the country.
