Former Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi, has promised a gender-balanced federal cabinet. He made this vow for his potential 2027 presidency. Amaechi spoke in Lagos on Monday. He was the Special Guest of Honour. The event was the inauguration of the World Women Organisation’s Nigeria chapter.

This move is central to his governance blueprint. He insists leadership must prioritize competence. Gender should not be a defining factor.

Amaechi declared his 2027 presidential ambition in August 2025. He did so under the African Democratic Congress (ADC) platform. He assured that women’s inclusion would be visible from day one. This would be measurable under his potential administration.

An Evenly Split Cabinet

The federal cabinet typically has about 42 ministers. Amaechi explained it would be evenly split. “There will be 21 male and 21 female,” he stated. He added that gender must never question ability.

Young women will also gain representation in governance. “10 or 11 will go to the youths,” Amaechi said. The remaining positions would go to women from various age brackets. They would also represent different backgrounds.

Competence Over Gender

Amaechi stressed that cabinet roles are not symbolic. Women must understand these are earned seats. “It’s not because they are women,” he clarified. “It’s because they are equipped.” Lawmakers, young leaders, and political allies would earn roles based on capacity. Readiness, not compassion, would be the criteria.

Amaechi referenced his past legislative reforms. As former Speaker of the Rivers Assembly, he supported widow protection laws. These laws curbed harmful cultural practices.

Addressing Challenges to Women’s Progress

He warned that discriminatory norms still hinder women’s progress. They also limit access to education. Amaechi voiced concern about women’s internal conflicts. He noted these conflicts slow down their own progress. Unity would build wider support for inclusion. “If women stop fighting themselves, men will be encouraged,” he concluded.