Female, Youth Inclusion Put to Test as Okafor Declares for Ideato North Reps Seat

Juliet Akoje In Abuja.

The promise of broader inclusion in Nigeria’s political space driven by the Not Too Young to Run Act of 2018 and the ongoing push for the Gender Equal Opportunity Bill faces renewed scrutiny as stakeholders question whether political parties are translating commitments into action.

In Ideato North Federal Constituency, that question is taking shape through the emergence of a new aspirant.

Dr. Ngozi Okafor, an organisational psychologist with over three decades of experience in youth empowerment, has declared her intention to contest for the House of Representatives under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

She currently serves as the National Director of Media Relations and Stakeholder Engagement at the City Boy Movement.

The APC has repeatedly affirmed its resolve to deepen female and youth participation in governance.

Okafor’s candidacy is anchored on a record of social impact.

Through her foundation at the University of Abuja, she has awarded scholarships and provided information, advice, and guidance to thousands of students.

Her national role has also placed her at the forefront of citizen engagement, particularly at a time when Nigerians are increasingly demanding a voice in governance.

She cited several government initiatives as signs of progress, including the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), which has benefited over 1.3 million students; the Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) initiative aimed at reducing transport and business costs; support for small businesses through SMEDAN and SEDC; zero-rated import duties on electric vehicles; and a gradual easing of food prices following a period of sharp increases that once saw onions gifted at weddings.

“Nigeria is on a recovery journey,” Okafor said. “It is challenging, but the outcome is worth fighting for.”

As political activities gather momentum ahead of the elections, attention will focus on whether the APC will align its rhetoric with concrete backing for candidates like Okafor.

For many observers, Ideato North may serve as a critical test case.