Former Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi, has pledged to allocate half of all federal cabinet positions to women. This will happen if he becomes Nigeria’s President in 2027. He made this promise on Monday in Lagos. Amaechi was the Special Guest of Honour at the inauguration of the World Women Organisation’s Nigeria chapter.

He stated that this commitment is central to his governance vision. Amaechi stressed that competence, not gender, must define leadership.

Amaechi declared his 2027 presidential ambition under the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in August 2025. He assured that women’s inclusion would be evident from the very start of his potential administration. He elaborated that a typical federal cabinet of about 42 ministers would be equally divided.

“There will be 21 male and 21 female,” Amaechi affirmed. He emphasized that gender should never be a barrier to ability.

Furthermore, Amaechi indicated that youth would be well-represented. ’10 or 11′ positions, he said, would be designated for young women. The remaining slots would then be distributed among women from various age groups and backgrounds.

Amaechi underscored that women must view cabinet roles as earned positions. They are not mere symbolic gestures. “Women must know that it’s not because they are women. It’s because they are equipped,” he stated.

He further explained that all appointees, including lawmakers and young leaders, must be chosen based on their readiness and capacity. Selection, he stressed, should not be based on sympathy.

Amaechi also recalled legislative reforms he supported as a former Speaker of the Rivers State Assembly. These included widow protection laws, which aimed to curb harmful cultural practices. He cautioned that discriminatory norms continue to impede women’s progress. They also limit their access to education.

Additionally, he expressed concern about women hindering their own advancement. This happens through internal conflicts. Amaechi suggested that greater unity among women would foster broader support for their inclusion. He noted, “If women stop fighting themselves, men will be encouraged.”