Former Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi, has made a significant promise ahead of the 2027 presidential election. He has pledged that women will occupy half of all federal cabinet positions under his administration if he emerges as Nigeria’s President.

Amaechi announced this commitment on Monday in Lagos. He was speaking as the Special Guest of Honour at the inauguration of the Nigeria chapter of the World Women Organisation.

Amaechi’s Vision: Competence Over Gender

The former governor stated that this move is central to his governance strategy. He firmly believes that leadership should be based on competence, not gender. Amaechi declared his 2027 presidential ambition on the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in August 2025.

He assured that women’s inclusion would be immediately visible and measurable. This would begin from the very first day of his potential presidency. Nigeria’s federal cabinet typically comprises about 42 ministers.

Amaechi explained that these roles would be evenly divided. “There will be 21 male and 21 female,” he affirmed. He stressed that gender should never be a factor in questioning anyone’s ability.

He further noted that young women would also be represented in his government. “10 or 11 will go to the youths,” he said. The remaining positions would be allocated to women from various age groups and backgrounds.

Roles Must Be Earned, Not Symbolic

Amaechi emphasized that women must understand the nature of cabinet roles. These are not symbolic gestures, but earned seats. “Women must know that it’s not because they are women. It’s because they are equipped,” he stated.

He added that appointments for lawmakers, young leaders, and political allies would also be based on readiness and capacity. Compassion alone would not be a determinant.

Addressing Challenges to Women’s Progress

Amaechi also recalled past legislative reforms he championed as former Speaker of the Rivers Assembly. He cited widow protection laws which helped curb harmful cultural practices. He warned that discriminatory norms still significantly hinder women’s progress and limit their access to education.

He also expressed concern about women inadvertently slowing themselves down. This can happen through avoidable internal conflicts. He suggested that unity among women would build broader support for their inclusion. “If women stop fighting themselves, men will be encouraged,” he concluded.