Senate President Godswill Akpabio has said that one of the major reasons female politicians struggle to win elections in Nigeria is the limited support they receive from other women.
Akpabio made the remark on Tuesday while hosting a delegation from the European Union Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee, led by Mr. David McAllister, at the National Assembly in Abuja.
“Women often vote for male candidates, making it difficult for female candidates to win elections,” he said.
The Senate President expressed concern over the persistent gender imbalance in Nigeria’s political representation, noting that women constitute nearly half of the electorate but remain underrepresented in governance.
Currently, only four of the 109 senators and 17 of the 360 House of Representatives members are women figures that have barely changed in two decades.
Akpabio disclosed that the National Assembly is exploring “innovative solutions, including constitutional amendments,” to encourage gender inclusion in politics and governance.
He added that the legislature is ready to collaborate with advocacy groups such as the Black Women’s Forum to promote women’s participation.
On his part, McAllister said the EU delegation’s visit aimed to strengthen relations with Nigeria and better understand developments in West Africa. He reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to supporting Nigeria in areas including democracy, security, climate action, and economic growth.
“The EU is committed to supporting Nigeria’s development efforts,” McAllister said, emphasizing Europe’s interest in a stable and prosperous Nigeria.
The delegation’s trip forms part of a wider West African tour that includes Ghana and precedes the International Islamic Conference on Security and Governance in West Africa and the Sahel, scheduled for November 4, 2025, at the ECOWAS Commission.
Akpabio expressed optimism that renewed collaboration with the EU would deliver tangible results in security, trade, and governance, reaffirming Nigeria’s readiness to deepen ties with the European bloc.
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