Former Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi, has pledged that women will occupy half of all ministerial positions if he becomes Nigeria’s president in 2027.

Amaechi made the commitment on Monday in Lagos while serving as Special Guest of Honour at the inauguration of the Nigeria chapter of the World Women Organisation. He said his governance plan prioritises competence and inclusion, stressing that gender should never determine a person’s suitability for leadership.

Declaring his presidential ambition under the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in August 2025, Amaechi revealed that a typical 42-member federal cabinet would be split evenly.

“There will be 21 men and 21 women,” he stated, adding that his administration would ensure meaningful—not symbolic—female participation.

He noted that part of the allocation would go to young women, explaining that “10 or 11 positions will be for youths,” while the rest would be shared among women of diverse ages and backgrounds.

Amaechi stressed that appointments would be earned through capacity and readiness, not handed out as favours. He said this merit-based principle would apply to women, lawmakers, and young political leaders alike.

Referencing his days as Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Amaechi pointed to his support for legislative reforms protecting widows from harmful cultural practices. He argued that discriminatory traditions, limited access to education, and internal rivalry have slowed women’s political progress.

He urged women to prioritise unity, saying, “If women stop fighting themselves, men will be encouraged.”