Peter Obi urges women and youth inclusion at REFELA Conference in Gambia

Africa, Politics

Lagos, Nigeria (NPA) — March 11, 2026 — Nigerian politician and 2027 presidential aspirant under the All Democratic Congress (ADC), Mr Peter Obi, has called for greater inclusion of women and youth in national development strategies. He made the appeal on Tuesday while addressing participants at the REFELA National Conference in Banjul, The Gambia, themed “Accelerating Representation, Safeguarding, and Strengthening Women’s Rights.”

Serving as both Guest Speaker and Chief Guest of the occasion, Obi aligned his remarks with this year’s International Women’s Day theme, “Give to Gain.” 

He stressed that the prosperity of nations is directly linked to how seriously they invest in their people, particularly women. “When women are given equal access to education, finance, and leadership opportunities, they become not just participants but critical drivers of national development,” he said.

In a statement issued Wednesday, Obi emphasised that for countries like Nigeria, The Gambia, and other African nations, sustainable prosperity requires deliberate investment in human capital. He highlighted education, healthcare, skills development, and economic inclusion for women and youth as the foundation for growth.

Obi, widely recognised as the leader of the Obidient Movement with strong youth support, noted that empowering women, fostering accountability, and prioritising education would enable Africa to transform potential into tangible progress. “This is development as freedom,” he declared, urging governments to embrace inclusive policies that build shared opportunities for all.