President Bola Tinubu on Friday said political parties that fail to include women in leadership weaken their own structure and prospects, as he pledged greater opportunities for women within the All Progressives Congress.
The convention, themed “Unity in Progress: Consolidating the Renewed Hope Agenda,” is expected to produce a new National Chairman and other members of the National Working Committee.
Tinubu spoke at the APC’s 4th Elective National Convention held at Eagle Square, Abuja.
Addressing women directly, the President said their contributions to national development and party stability remain critical and must be strengthened through deliberate inclusion.
“Your role in our growth and stability is essential,” he said.
“This party must continue to open wider spaces for women to lead, influence policy, and shape Nigeria’s democracy.”
Tinubu warned that excluding women from leadership positions would ultimately weaken the party.
“A party that excludes women weakens itself; a party that empowers women will be stronger and more resilient,” he said.
He assured that the APC would take concrete steps to ensure more women occupy leadership roles both within the party and in government.
“We have heard your calls, and we will act to ensure more women occupy leadership roles in party organs and government at all levels,” he added.
The President also called for unity among party members, urging delegates and aspirants to conduct themselves with maturity and respect during the convention.
“Let no contest divide us. Let no outcome embitter us. At the end of this convention, our party must be the victor,” he said.
Tinubu further urged newly elected officials to lead with integrity and vision, noting that the future of the party and Nigeria’s democracy depends on their leadership.