Women for 35%: Mobilizing for Political Inclusion and Leadership in Niger State

The conversation surrounding gender inclusion in Nigerian politics is taking a decisive turn. At the K&H Secretariat in Minna, the Women for 35% initiative officially held its inaugural meeting, marking a strategic milestone for political mobilization and gender advocacy in Niger State.

The gathering brought together key stakeholders, grassroots mobilizers, and female leaders united by a singular objective: to translate the 35% affirmative action target from a policy talking point into a structural reality.

Backed by the AJU Morgan Elumelu Foundation (AMEF), the movement is actively challenging old narratives and equipping women to step away from political sidelines and into decision-making spaces.

Moving Beyond the “Weaker Vessel” Narrative

For decades, women have been institutionalized as the driving engine behind election campaigns—mobilizing voter bases, leading grassroots rallies, and securing wins for others. Yet, when it comes to legislative seats and administrative appointments, women remain severely underrepresented.

The attendees at the Minna inaugural meeting made it clear that this cycle must change. Leaders within the initiative emphasized that the age-old stereotype of women being the “weaker vessel” is outdated.

“Women for 35 are women who believe in their strengths. They don’t want to remain idle; they want to be part of leadership, not just in politics, but in every organization.”

Strategy and Visibility: The Roadmap for Niger State

Because the initiative is newly established in Niger State, a significant portion of the inaugural meeting focused on tactical mobilization. Leaders outlined a clear roadmap to create visibility and build a strong coalition across all local government areas (LGAs).

Key Priorities Highlighted by Leadership:

• Hon. Judith Johnson (Director of Conflict and Resolution): Emphasized the power of numbers. Women have historically put men into political positions through heavy voter turnout; the same energy is now being redirected toward putting competent women into public office.

• Resource Mobilization Strategy: The executive team revealed that upcoming phases will feature extensive sensitization programs, utilizing both physical grassroots outreach and digital media networks to ensure the mission reaches every woman in Niger State.

• Hon. Janet Gana (State Coordinator): Reaffirmed that achieving a minimum of 35% representation in elective positions and political appointments remains the non-negotiable target for the state chapter.

The Time to Lead is Now

The message radiating from the Minna meeting was a direct call to action for all women across Niger State: true political equity requires active participation. Competence is not lacking; what has been missing is the structural window of opportunity and a unified front to demand it.

With the backing of the AJU Morgan Elumelu Foundation, the Women for 35% campaign is moving forward with a structured focus on policy advocacy, public sensitization, and leadership training.

Watch the full news report from the inaugural meeting below:

Join the Movement

What are your thoughts on the push for 35% affirmative action in state governance? Drop your comments below, and share this article to help amplify the voices of women leading change in Niger State!