6 Women Who Have Attempted to be President in Nigeria

Uju Ohanenye: A Multifaceted Leader in the 2023 Presidential Race

Uju Ohanenye stands out as a pioneering female figure in Nigerian politics. In the 2023 presidential elections, she became the first female aspirant from the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nigeria’s ruling party. Ohanenye’s career spans multiple fields including law, entrepreneurship, real estate, and the entertainment industry, making her a dynamic and versatile leader.

Her presidential bid, although eventually withdrawn in support of Bola Tinubu, marked a significant milestone for women in Nigerian politics, particularly within a major political party. Ohanenye’s professional achievements and appointment as Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development in 2023 underscore her commitment to advancing women’s rights and social issues.

By stepping into the presidential race, Ohanenye challenged existing gender norms and inspired many Nigerian women to consider leadership roles in governance. Her multifaceted career and advocacy work reflect the diverse talents women bring to the political arena, emphasizing the importance of inclusive leadership.

Khadijah Okunnu-Lamidi: Youth Advocate and Media Entrepreneur

Khadijah Okunnu-Lamidi emerged as a fresh voice in Nigerian presidential politics during the 2023 elections. Known for her background in business management and strategic project management, she is also the founder of Slice Media Solutions, a media company focused on youth empowerment and development.

Her campaign centered on addressing the needs of young Nigerians, including education, employment, and digital innovation. As a media personality and advocate, Okunnu-Lamidi leveraged her platform to engage young voters and promote greater political participation among Nigeria’s youth.

Okunnu-Lamidi’s bid reflected a broader trend of younger, more diverse candidates seeking to reshape Nigeria’s political landscape. Her focus on youth issues highlights the importance of generational inclusion in governance and the potential for technology-driven solutions to national challenges.

Oby Ezekwesili: Champion of Anti-Corruption and Educational Reform

Oby Ezekwesili is one of Nigeria’s most prominent female politicians and activists. She ran for president in the 2019 elections under the Allied Congress Party of Nigeria (ACPN), bringing a wealth of experience from her prior roles as Minister of Education and Vice President of the World Bank’s Africa division.

Her presidential campaign was built on a strong platform of anti-corruption, transparency, and educational reform. Ezekwesili’s advocacy for good governance and accountability resonated with many Nigerians frustrated by systemic corruption and poor public service delivery.

Ezekwesili’s efforts extended beyond politics; she co-founded the #BringBackOurGirls movement, which raised global awareness about the abduction of schoolgirls by Boko Haram. Her presidential run symbolized a call for ethical leadership and a commitment to social justice in Nigeria.

Eunice Atuejide: The Founder of the National Interest Party

Eunice Atuejide entered the 2019 presidential race as the founder of the National Interest Party (NIP), a political party dedicated to reform and youth inclusion. With academic qualifications in Agricultural Economics, Business Administration, and Law, Atuejide brings a multidisciplinary approach to governance.

Her professional background includes IT consultancy and involvement in the film industry, demonstrating her versatility and modern outlook. Atuejide’s campaign emphasized the need for structural reforms, transparency, and the empowerment of marginalized groups, particularly young Nigerians.

By establishing NIP and running for president, Atuejide challenged the dominance of established parties and provided an alternative vision for Nigeria’s future. Her candidacy highlights the growing role of women and young leaders in driving political change.

Remi Sonaiya: Nigeria’s Trailblazing Female Presidential Candidate of 2015

Remi Sonaiya made history as the only female presidential candidate in the 2015 Nigerian elections, representing the KOWA Party. A respected academic, Sonaiya is a professor of English Language and Literature at Obafemi Awolowo University with a commitment to education and social development.

Her political journey began in 2010 when she joined the KOWA Party, eventually becoming its National Public Relations Officer and then presidential candidate. Sonaiya’s campaign focused on good governance, youth empowerment, and social justice, challenging the status quo and advocating for a more inclusive political system.

Sonaiya’s candidacy broke barriers and inspired many Nigerian women to pursue leadership roles. Her academic background and principled stance on governance issues underscored the potential for intellectual rigor and ethical leadership in Nigerian politics.

Sarah Jibril: Nigeria’s First Female Presidential Candidate and Ethical Advocate

Sarah Jibril is a pioneering figure in Nigerian politics, known for being the first woman to contest the presidency in 1992. With a long public service career, including as commissioner for social development, youth, and sport in Kwara State, Jibril has been a steadfast advocate for women and children’s rights.

She also served as Special Adviser to President Goodluck Jonathan on Ethics and Moral Values, emphasizing the importance of integrity and ethical governance. Jibril’s multiple presidential runs reflect her enduring commitment to public service and social reform.

Her pioneering efforts paved the way for other women to enter Nigerian politics, challenging gender stereotypes and advocating for inclusive policies. Jibril’s career highlights the significant role women play in shaping Nigeria’s moral and political fabric.

The Importance of Women’s Political Participation in Nigeria

The increasing participation of women in Nigerian politics is vital for achieving gender equality and fostering inclusive governance. Women bring diverse perspectives and priorities, often focusing on social welfare, education, healthcare, and anti-corruption efforts that benefit society as a whole.

Despite facing cultural, societal, and institutional barriers, Nigerian women continue to break through political glass ceilings. Their involvement ensures that policymaking reflects the needs of all citizens, promoting fairness and justice across communities.

Promoting women’s leadership in politics also inspires younger generations to engage in civic duties, strengthening Nigeria’s democracy. As more women run for office and assume leadership roles, the nation moves closer to realizing a truly representative government.

Conclusion

The journeys of these six Nigerian women who have attempted to become president illustrate both the challenges and progress in the country’s political arena. Their courage, determination, and diverse backgrounds enrich Nigeria’s democratic process and highlight the critical need for inclusive leadership. As these trailblazers continue to inspire and pave the way, the future of Nigerian politics looks more promising with increased female participation. Achieving gender equality in political representation is not just a goal but a necessity for a more just and effective governance system that truly reflects the aspirations of all Nigerians.