IWD 2026: Low participation of women in politics worrisome — Nonye Soludo

The wife of the Governor of Anambra State, Nonye Soludo, has raised concerns over the persistently low participation of women in politics, urging them to take more active roles in leadership and decision-making.

In a statement marking International Women’s Day 2026, Soludo called for a review of strategies aimed at boosting women’s political engagement, warning that discussions without practical action will not yield results.

“Decades of studies, seminars, protests, and appeals have not produced sufficient progress. The time of staying on the sidelines is over. Women must now be at the centre and forefront of these efforts,” she said.

She highlighted that women’s representation in politics remains significantly low and encouraged women to overcome reservations about the political system and actively engage in governance. Soludo also called on women with political aspirations to take bold steps toward becoming change-makers, assuring them of collective support.

The governor’s wife commended First Lady Oluremi Tinubu for proposing legislation that would mandate a specific number of seats for women in the National Assembly, noting that such a policy would create opportunities for elected women to represent and amplify the voices of millions seeking greater inclusion in governance.