11/08/2026
AGH_KADUNA_WEEKLY DISCUSSION
THEME:WOMEN’S PARTICIPATION IN POLITICS AND ITS IMPACT ON NIGERIA
Introduction
A discussion was held on the topic “Do you think women’s participation in politics will make Nigeria better?” The topic was raised by Speed Visual and seconded by Jannah.
The topic generated a lively and extensive discussion, with participants sharing different perspectives on women's participation in politics, leadership, governance, religion, corruption, business, funding and national development.
The discussion moved from the global perspective to the Nigerian context, with participants giving examples of prominent women who have participated in politics, governance and business.
Angry Ustaz discussed the topic from both global and local perspectives. He mentioned prominent women who have occupied influential positions globally and in Nigeria, including Kamala Harris, Amina J. Mohammed, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and Diezani Alison-Madueke.
His contribution highlighted the fact that women have been able to attain significant positions of influence and participate in important political, economic and international decision-making processes.
Aisha Usman, focused on women's participation in the business community.
She pointed out that women are increasingly dominating and making significant contributions to the business sector, despite the fact that business has traditionally been viewed as a male-dominated environment.
She emphasized that the achievements of women in business demonstrate their ability to compete, lead and succeed even in environments where men have historically been dominant.
Jannah, addressed the issue of religion and women's participation in politics.
She argued that the discussion should not simply rely on claims that religion prohibits women from participating in politics as a reason to discourage their involvement.
Her contribution emphasized the need for a broader and more informed discussion about women's participation, taking into consideration their abilities, contributions and the different perspectives surrounding the subject.
Muhammad, expressed the opinion that women nowadays may be more corrupt than men.
This position generated further discussion, as other participants challenged the idea that corruption should be associated with gender.
Abubakar Mailafiya opposed the argument that women are not necessarily more corrupt than men.
He gave examples of women who have held important political positions and demonstrated competence in public service. Among the examples he mentioned were female deputy governors in the South-East and Hadiza Bala Usman.
He used these examples to demonstrate that women should not be judged collectively based on the actions of some individuals.
He also identified funding as one of the major challenges limiting women's participation in politics. According to his point, the high financial requirements associated with political participation can make it difficult for many women to contest elections and compete effectively.
Ibrahim Raji also shared his perspective on the topic.
He gave the example of Senator Aishatu Dahiru Ahmed, popularly known as Binani, from Adamawa State. He highlighted her political journey, particularly her emergence as the APC governorship candidate in Adamawa for the 2023 election.
Ibrahim noted that Binani was able to defeat or emerge ahead of several male aspirants during the party's governorship primary, demonstrating that women can compete effectively in a political environment largely dominated by men.
He used the example to emphasize that women should not be discouraged from participating in politics simply because politics is often perceived as a male-dominated field.
Ibrahim further stated:
“For me, it is not about whether women or men are better. It is about character, competence and integrity.”
He explained that if capable women are given the opportunity to participate in politics, they can bring their own ideas, experiences and contributions to governance.
He also emphasized that women, like men, have their strengths and weaknesses. Therefore, leadership should not be determined solely by gender but by the ability, character and integrity of the individual.
Major Issues Raised During the Discussion
The discussion touched on several important issues, including
1. Women's ability to compete with men in political leadership.
2. The achievements of women in politics, business and public administration.
3. The role of religion in discussions about women's political participation
4. Whether corruption should be associated with gender.
5. The importance of character, competence and integrity in leadership.
6. The high cost of political participation and the challenge of funding.
7. The need to create more opportunities for capable women to participate in politics.
8. The importance of allowing both men and women to contribute to national development.
RECOMMENDATION
At the end of the discussion, we all agreed to forward a suggestion to the leadership of Arewa Genius Hub (AGH) to consider allocating about two days for sensitisation and further discussion of this topic in the group.
The purpose would be to give members more time to learn, share different perspectives, and have a deeper and more informed discussion about women's participation in politics and its implications for Nigeria.
Prepared by:
Ibrahim Raji
10th August 2026
