Senate Leader Bamidele calls for gender inclusion in Nigeria

Senate Leader Senator Opeyemi Bamidele has stated that Nigeria cannot reach its full potential without the active inclusion of women in governance, diplomacy, economic development, and public leadership. Speaking at the presentation of the book ‘The Female Diplomat: Navigating Power, Ambition and Identity’ at Nigeria House in New York, Bamidele characterized gender inclusion as a strategic investment in human capital rather than an act of favor.

Bamidele emphasized that strengthening Nigerian democracy requires adequate representation within public institutions. He noted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’ recognizes the necessity of utilizing the abilities of all citizens, specifically ensuring that women and young people are not relegated to the background. He argued that true inclusion must move beyond mere presence to provide genuine opportunities for women to participate in decision-making and policy implementation.

The event was attended by several high-ranking officials, including United Nations Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed, Nigerian Minister of Foreign Affairs Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, and Nigeria’s Ambassador to the United States Kayode Are.