Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has called for Nigerian women to have the opportunity to become President. He made this plea during the 5th edition of the Egba Dialect Debate and Choral Competition for Secondary Schools in Ogun Central Senatorial, held in Abeokuta on June 8, 2023. The event, organized by Dr. Lanre Tejuoso, the Pro-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, focused on the theme ‘Nigeria is ripe for a female president.’
Obasanjo emphasized that Nigerian women have reached a stage where they deserve a chance to lead at the highest level. He also expressed his belief that the country would experience stronger unity and development if power were shared equally between both genders. Obasanjo highlighted that the only difference between genders is the ability of females to get pregnant, and he sees no other reason why a woman cannot be the President of Nigeria.
Deputy Governor Naimot Salako-Oyedele of Ogun State echoed Obasanjo’s sentiments and emphasized the need to increase female representation in Nigerian politics. She observed that only a few women have been given the opportunity to hold political offices across the country, including in Ogun State. Salako-Oyedele stressed the importance of starting from the grassroots level to groom capable female leaders, enabling them to gain experience and progress to higher positions.
Salako-Oyedele highlighted the low representation of women in various political offices in Ogun State, such as councillors, chairpersons, members of the House of Assembly, House of Representatives, and senators. She emphasized the necessity of empowering women at all levels of governance.The Deputy Governor commended the promotion of indigenous languages and culture, stating that the state government is dedicated to preserving and promoting the Yoruba language. She expressed support for the proposed Yoruba cultural center at the University of Ibadan, emphasizing the importance of cultural preservation and education.
The event celebrated the richness of the Yoruba culture and aimed to inspire young students to appreciate and embrace their cultural heritage.
