Zainab Ibrahim, the Deputy National Woman Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has a clear message. She said APC women want a “twinning formula” to help more women enter politics.
This formula means that deputy roles, like deputy governors and vice chairpersons, must always be women. She believes this is the fastest way to give women real power in Nigeria.
Why the Twinning Formula Matters
Ibrahim said that if APC had already used this plan, there would be 24 female deputy governors today. APC women see this as the “lowest hanging fruit,” which means it is the easiest step to take right now.
She explained that the idea does not need new laws from the National Assembly. It can start simply as a party rule. APC women believe the party can make this change quickly and set an example for other political parties in Nigeria.
Examples From Africa
APC women are pointing to other countries as proof that the twinning formula works. In Gambia, the ruling party made it a rule that deputy governors must be women.
Countries like Namibia and Rwanda have also reached 50% women representation in government by using the same idea. The women believe Nigeria can do it too.
Ibrahim also mentioned former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello. He made all local government vice chairpersons in his state women. This shows the formula is not just a dream — it is possible in Nigeria.
APC Women Promise Support
Ibrahim said APC women will strongly support leaders who promise to run with female deputies. She said, “Any governor or local government chairman who picks a woman as deputy will get our 100% support.”
This shows that APC women are ready to reward those who give women more chances in politics.
Pushing Beyond APC
Zainab Ibrahim said her work is not only for APC women. She also serves as Deputy National Secretary of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC).
There, she leads the Women Directorate. She works with women leaders from 19 political parties across Nigeria. Together, they are asking for more inclusion and pushing the twinning formula at every level.
Conclusion
APC women believe the twinning formula is a smart, fast, and fair way to give women real roles in politics. If APC and other parties adopt it, more women will serve as deputies and leaders.
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