By Omeiza Ajayi

ABUJA: The coalition of female leaders within the All Progressives Congress APC has called for a structural overhaul of Nigeria’s political landscape, demanding a minimum of 35 percent affirmative action in appointments and robust financial backing for female candidates.

At a news conference Monday in Abuja held under the theme, “From Aspiration to Representation: A Renewed Hope for Inclusive Political Participation,” the Renewed Hope Female Aspirants Network RHFAN argued that the era of mere “aspiration” must give way to concrete “representation” in the corridors of power.

National Coordinator of the network, Hon. Tonbra Sebrina Ekiotenne, described the current political climate as a “defining moment” for Nigerian women who have long demonstrated excellence in business and academia but remain sidelined in governance.

“This theme challenges us to move beyond aspiration – to step into representation. Representation is not symbolic – it is essential. When women are included in decision-making, governance becomes more inclusive, policies become more responsive, and national development becomes more balanced and sustainable”, Ekiotenne declared.

National Spokesperson for RHFAN, Dr Judith Etuk Ogbara reinforced that the push for inclusion is not a favoir but a national necessity.

“Moving from aspiration to representation is a national imperative. We seek a future where women are key decision-makers shaping Nigeria’s destiny. Under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership, and with collective effort, Nigeria can achieve a more inclusive, equitable, and representative democracy”, Ogbara noted.

The network’s demands were explicit and targeted at both the party leadership and the federal government.

Topping the list is the immediate implementation of 35 percent affirmative action in political appointments at federal, state and local levels.

RHFAN also called on the APC to create “enabling environments” for female candidates and urged the legislature to prioritize the passage of gender equality and inclusion bills.

Central to their advocacy is the need for “Capacity Development and Funding Support.” The group is seeking structured systems that empower female aspirants with the actual resources, training, and mentorship required to survive the rigors of Nigerian politics.

The group expressed its total alignment with President Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda,” asserting that women are not just passive beneficiaries of this vision but its primary drivers.

Ekiotenne warned that the nation’s growth would remain stunted as long as half of its population is underrepresented in the rooms where decisions are made.

“Nigeria cannot truly thrive when half of its population is underrepresented in governance. The time for aspiration has passed. The time for representation is now”, she stated.

Adding a note of solidarity, the National Organizing Secretary of the network, Dr. Abasiama Isidore, encouraged members to remain steadfast in their advocacy.

“Let us put in even more effort, knowing fully well that our hope shall indeed be renewed,” she stated.

Established in 2023, the RHFAN said it has committed to a nationwide mobilization and mentorship drive across all geopolitical zones, vowing to collaborate with the government and civil society to ensure that women are no longer just “seen” in political spaces, but are “powerful” players in the nation’s democratic journey.