The Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, has declared that no nation can realise its full potential when a significant proportion of its population is unable to contribute to governance and development.
He said the inclusion of women in public governance is not an act of favour but a strategic investment in Nigeria’s human capital and institutional strength.
Bamidele spoke on Thursday at the presentation of the book, “The Female Diplomat: Navigating Power, Ambition and Identity,” held at Nigeria House, New York, United States.
The event brought together the Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, Ms Amina Mohammed; Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu; Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Amb. Jimoh Ibrahim; Nigeria’s Ambassador to the US, Amb. Kayode Are, among other dignitaries.
Bamidele, who chaired the book launch, said Nigeria’s democracy can only be strengthened when all citizens are adequately represented in institutions established to serve them.
He said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu recognises that Nigeria’s development must draw on the abilities of all citizens, as captured in the Renewed Hope Agenda.
He noted that President Tinubu has consistently affirmed that women and young people must not be relegated to the background in national life.
According to him, meaningful inclusion goes beyond the presence of women in institutions.
“It requires genuine opportunities to participate in decision-making, exercise responsibility and contribute to the formulation and implementation of public policy,” he said.
Bamidele said gender inclusion is central to the future of Nigeria and the world in the 21st century.
He said Nigeria’s foreign relations are enriched when the country is represented by capable professionals whose knowledge and experience reflect the breadth of national talent.
The Senate Leader added that the National Assembly will continue to promote fair, accessible and responsive institutions through legislation, representation and oversight, and create an environment where competence is recognised and leadership is strengthened by the participation of qualified women.
He also participated in the Nigeria Investment Forum 2026, which brought together government representatives, international investors, development finance institutions and business leaders to explore investment opportunities in Nigeria.
No nation thrives without gender inclusion – Bamidele declares in New York