By Ebunoluwa Sessou

A former Commissioner for Health in Oyo State, Muyiwa Gbadegesin, has called for increased female participation in party leadership and governance structures, stressing the critical role of women in sustainable political development.

Gbadegesin made the call on the sidelines of the All Progressives Congress National Convention in Abuja, where he held a strategic engagement with members of the Oyo State women’s leadership structure of the All Progressives Congress, APC.

The meeting, described by participants as constructive and forward-looking, brought together key figures within the party’s women’s wing to explore pathways for strengthening grassroots mobilisation, improving internal coordination, and expanding leadership opportunities for women across Oyo State.

Observers noted the depth of experience and organisational insight demonstrated during the discussions, particularly on enhancing representation and reinforcing the institutional role of women in party decision-making processes. The engagement also underscored the need to foster a more inclusive political environment that reflects the contributions of women at community and state levels.

Speaking during the session, Gbadegesin commended the women leaders for their commitment to party development and community engagement. He noted that the future of political progress in Oyo State would depend significantly on the active involvement of women in leadership positions.

Participants at the meeting included Oyo State APC Women Leader, Mrs. Felicia Opatunde; State Deputy Women Leader, Alhaja Fatima Hassan; former member of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Dr. Adepeju Esan; and a former lawmaker, Alhaja Ramota Okemakinde, alongside other senior women leaders within the party.

Stakeholders at the convention described the engagement as part of ongoing consultations among party leaders and delegates aimed at strengthening internal cohesion and positioning the party for future political activities in Oyo State.