Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has called for equal access to education, finance, and leadership opportunities for women, stressing that such measures are essential for societal prosperity.
Obi made the remarks on Tuesday in Banjul, The Gambia, at the REFELA National Conference, which was themed “Accelerating Representation, Safeguarding, and Strengthening Women’s Rights”. His address also reflected the theme of this year’s International Women’s Day, “Give to Gain”.
Focusing on the importance of investing in human capital, Obi highlighted that the prosperity of nations is closely linked to how seriously they prioritize the development of their people, particularly women.
He emphasized that countries that deliberately invest in education, healthcare, skills development, and economic inclusion for women and youth gain stronger economies and more stable societies.
“When women are given equal access to education, finance, and leadership opportunities, they become not just participants but critical drivers of national development,” Obi said.
He added, “For nations seeking lasting prosperity, particularly Nigeria, The Gambia, and other African countries, the path forward must be aggressive, deliberate, and strategic investment in human capital. Prioritizing education, healthcare, skills development, and economic inclusion for women and youth is the foundation for sustainable growth and development of any nation.”
