The Archbishop Emeritus of Abuja, Cardinal John Onaiyekan, has called on Nigerian women to take a more active role in politics and governance ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking alongside other Catholic leaders during the 2026 Catholic Women Organisation, Abuja Archdiocese (CWOAA) Day celebration at St. Charles Lwanga Catholic Church, Apo, Abuja, the cleric urged women to overcome hesitation and pursue leadership opportunities.
Onaiyekan said women possess the numerical strength and abilities needed to contribute significantly to national development, stressing that gender differences should not be seen as a limitation.
“The difference is clear between men and women, but that difference should never be interpreted to mean that women are less,” he said.
The cardinal described women as vital partners in building society, encouraging them to use their talents and capabilities to serve both the Church and the country.
Drawing lessons from biblical examples, he urged women to make rightful demands for leadership opportunities, noting that progress requires the joint efforts of both men and women.
He also criticised practices within some political parties that make it difficult for women, particularly mothers, to participate, citing meetings held at inconvenient hours as a major challenge.
“Nothing stops women from being in politics. However, political parties must change their style such as scheduling meetings from midnight to 3:00 a.m., which disadvantages mothers,” Onaiyekan stated.
The former Abuja archbishop praised organisations such as the Catholic Women Organisation for promoting empowerment and encouraging women’s involvement in social, economic and political activities.
He advised successful women in government, business and other professional fields to support and mentor younger women aspiring to leadership positions.
The Archdiocesan Chaplain of CWOAA, Rev. Fr. Victor Ogunyemi, backed the cardinal’s message, urging women to prepare for the 2027 elections by registering to vote and actively participating in the democratic process.
He said the era when women were restricted to the background was over, encouraging them to boldly present their qualifications and contest for elective offices.
“The time when women remained at the backyard or in the kitchen has long gone. Women need courage and tenacity. They must go all out to declare their qualifications and seek elective positions without fear or intimidation,” Ogunyemi said.
Earlier, CWOAA president, Dr Mabel Ilukwe, highlighted the organisation’s empowerment initiatives aimed at improving families and communities through various self-help projects.
She announced the CWOAA Multipurpose Secretariat project, which includes a 111-room Marian Hostel retreat centre, chapel, event centre, crèche and a 24-hour hospital with labour and surgical facilities.
According to Ilukwe, the facility also contains a skill acquisition centre designed to train unemployed mothers and youths in vocational skills to improve their economic independence.
“Nation-building starts right inside our homes, but we are not stopping there. We have doctors, engineers, bankers, and public servants among us, and we are stepping out to build the nation with pride,” she said.
The celebration, hosted by parish priest Rev. Fr. Thomas Edogbanya and parish CWO president Frances Chioma, featured prayers for Nigeria and awards recognising women for their contributions and service.
(NAN)