APGA To Host National Women's Summit on Advancing Women's Inclusion In Politics, Governance

 APGA TO HOST NATIONAL WOMEN'S SUMMIT ON ADVANCING WOMEN'S INCLUSION IN POLITICS, GOVERNANCE

By Wole Adedoyin 

The All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) has announced the 2026 National Women's Summit, a landmark event designed to promote greater participation of women in politics and governance. 

The summit will hold on Saturday, 11 July 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the Shehu Musa Yar'Adua Centre, Abuja. 

Organised by the National Working Committee and the APGA Women Wing, the summit is expected to attract political leaders, government officials, policymakers, traditional rulers, members of the diplomatic community, civil society organisations, women groups, development partners, youth leaders, and members of the public from across the country.

The summit is part of APGA's sustained commitment to deepening democracy through inclusive leadership and expanding opportunities for women to contribute meaningfully to governance and nation-building. 

As Nigeria continues to strengthen its democratic institutions, the party believes that increasing women's participation in decision-making processes remains essential to achieving equitable and sustainable national development.

The theme of the summit is, "Advancing Women's Inclusion in Politics and Governance: Addressing Barriers to Women's Participation and Representation." The theme reflects APGA's determination to confront the social, cultural, economic and institutional challenges that continue to limit women's access to political leadership and public office. The discussions are expected to produce practical recommendations for improving women's representation in elective and appointive positions across the country.

The distinguished Chairperson of the summit will be Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Honourable Minister of Foreign Affairs. Renowned for her outstanding contributions to diplomacy, public service and national development, Ambassador Odumegwu-Ojukwu is expected to provide leadership and inspiration as participants deliberate on practical pathways towards achieving greater gender inclusion in governance.

The keynote address will be delivered by Dame Pauline Tallen, OFR, KSG, former Deputy Governor of Plateau State and one of Nigeria's leading advocates for women's political participation. Drawing from her extensive experience in governance and public service, she is expected to examine the challenges confronting women in politics and present strategies for increasing female participation in leadership at all levels.

The summit will be graced by the Chief Guest of Honour, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON, First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Her attendance is expected to reinforce the national commitment to women's empowerment, social inclusion and the advancement of policies that improve the welfare and leadership opportunities of Nigerian women.

His Royal Majesty, Obi Professor Epiphany Chigbogu Azinge, SAN, OON, will serve as the Royal Father of the Day. A distinguished legal scholar, administrator and traditional ruler, His Royal Majesty's participation underscores the important role of traditional institutions in promoting inclusive governance, peace, justice and national development.

Also expected as Special Guests of Honour are Professor Chukwuma Soludo, CFR, Executive Governor of Anambra State, and Dr Mrs Nonye Soludo, First Lady of Anambra State. Their participation reflects the Anambra State Government's commitment to women empowerment, human capital development and inclusive governance. Their presence is expected to enrich discussions on policies that promote greater opportunities for women in leadership.

The National Chairman of APGA, Chief Barrister Sly Ezeokenwa, will serve as the Chief Host, while the National Women Leader of the party, Mrs Elizabeth Nwokeoha, Esq., will host the summit. Under their leadership, APGA has continued to champion initiatives that encourage the active participation of women in party administration, governance and democratic processes. The summit represents another significant step in the party's vision of building a more inclusive and representative political system.

The Planning Committee, chaired by Mrs Chiamaka Nnake, Secretary to the Government of Anambra State, with Barrister Chekwube Violet Ezekwike, Deputy Chief of Staff to the National Chairman, serving as a key member of the organising team, has extended a cordial invitation to government officials, political leaders, members of political parties, traditional rulers, civil society organisations, women's associations, development partners, the media and the general public to attend the summit. 

APGA expressed confidence that the 2026 National Women's Summit will provide a strong platform for meaningful dialogue, strengthen national efforts towards gender inclusion, and contribute significantly to expanding women's participation and representation in politics and governance across Nigeria.

Wole Adedoyin is the Senior Special Adviser to the National Chairman of APGA on Media and Publicity