Atiku Abubakar Advocates for Women’s Empowerment and Inclusion in Governance

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has issued a passionate statement in support of women’s rights, advocating for their greater empowerment and inclusion in governance. The statement, which was shared on social media platform X.com, was made in commemoration of International Women’s Day on Saturday.

In his message, Atiku extended his appreciation to Nigerian women for their resilience and dedication. “On this special occasion of International Women’s Day, I extend my heartfelt appreciation to the resilient, hardworking, and courageous women of Nigeria,” he wrote. He went on to emphasize the pivotal roles women play in the nation’s development, saying, “Women are the backbone of our society and play indispensable roles in our homes, workplaces, and governance. Their contributions to nation-building are immeasurable, and today, we celebrate their strength, determination, and achievements.”

Atiku’s statement not only highlighted the successes of women in Nigeria but also brought attention to the persistent challenges they face in leadership roles. He voiced his concern about the ongoing suppression of women’s voices, particularly within political and governmental structures. The former vice president pointed to the recent suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan as a troubling example of this suppression.

“It is deeply concerning that in a democratic society, attempts are still being made to silence the voices of women in leadership. The recent suspension of Senator #NatashaAkpoti is an unfortunate example of such suppression, which undermines the principles of fairness, representation, and gender inclusivity,” Atiku remarked in his statement. His words reflect a broader sentiment shared by many who believe that gender equality in leadership is crucial for the health of Nigeria’s democracy.

The suspension of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, which has sparked controversy, was seen by many as an attempt to stifle her voice and diminish her influence in Nigerian politics. Atiku criticized such actions, asserting that women should not face backlash for seeking leadership positions. “Women must be encouraged and empowered to participate fully in governance, not stifled when they dare to lead,” he added.

Throughout his message, Atiku emphasized that the advancement of women is not only a matter of gender equality but also critical for national progress. He argued that a nation can only achieve true success when its women are given equal opportunities to thrive and contribute to all sectors of society.

He concluded his statement by reaffirming his commitment to supporting the protection and advancement of women’s rights in Nigeria. “A nation can only progress when its women are given the space and opportunity to thrive,” Atiku declared, underscoring the importance of creating a more inclusive and equal society for future generations.