Low Female Representation In Primaries Attributed To Financial, Cultural Barriers

Stakeholders have identified inadequate support systems, financial constraints, and entrenched cultural barriers as major factors limiting women’s participation and representation in the ongoing political party primaries ahead of the 2027 General Election.

The concerns were raised during an edition of “Politics Today”, a current affairs programme on Kapital FM, Abuja, where discussants examined the topic: “Female Representation in the Ongoing Political Party Primaries for the 2027 General Election.”

Speaking on the programme, the Vice President of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Zone D, Mrs. Chizoba Ogbeche, lamented the persistent challenges confronting women seeking elective offices despite their qualifications and competence.

According to her, many women are unable to secure party tickets due to inadequate political backing, limited access to campaign funding, and the prohibitive cost of nomination forms.

“Women are increasingly qualified and prepared to contribute meaningfully to governance, but many are still faced with enormous obstacles that make it difficult for them to compete on a level playing field. Until these barriers are addressed, meaningful female representation will remain a challenge,” she stated.

Mrs. Ogbeche stressed that greater inclusion of women in politics would enrich decision-making processes and strengthen democratic institutions.

Also contributing to the discussion, Founder of Kraftivity TV and Convener of the National Youth Job Fair, Maryjane Anulika Udoudo, emphasized the need for political parties to create more inclusive environments that encourage the participation of women and young people in governance.

She noted that sustainable national development and democratic growth could only be achieved when all segments of society are adequately represented.

“When women are given equal opportunities to participate in leadership and governance, the benefits extend beyond gender. Inclusive representation promotes better policies, stronger institutions, and a more prosperous society for everyone,” she said.

Mrs. Udoudo further urged political parties to adopt deliberate measures aimed at reducing barriers to entry for female aspirants and ensuring that women have equitable access to leadership opportunities.

The guests collectively called on government, political parties, civil society organisations, and other stakeholders to implement policies that promote gender inclusion, reduce financial obstacles, and create a more supportive environment for women seeking elective positions.

A caller during the programme also expressed concern over the low number of female aspirants emerging from the ongoing party primaries, describing the trend as a setback for inclusive governance.

The caller appealed to stakeholders to urgently address the factors discouraging women from contesting elections.

The discussion highlighted the growing demand for reforms that would increase women’s political participation and ensure broader representation in Nigeria’s democratic process ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Mon.Ris/Eugene/Uju/Chikezie