Presidential aspirant, Ada Kate Uchegbu, has emphasized the need for Nigeria to elect a female president, describing the nation as being at a critical juncture.
According to Uchegbu, repeated recycling of political leaders has failed to yield meaningful results, making a fresh approach essential for national progress.
According to Nigerian Tribune report, Uchegbu, a journalist and author, stated that African women are among the most capable leaders globally and can drive significant development if given the opportunity.
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She called on political parties to provide meaningful support for female candidates, rather than promoting them merely to fulfill diversity optics.
“The challenge of women in governance is not about competence,” Uchegbu said. “African women are among the most capable leaders on earth; it’s the structural bias in our political systems that needs to change. The day Nigeria elects a woman president, the continent’s political culture will change forever.”
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The presidential hopeful also highlighted the need for a generational shift in leadership, citing age and mindset as critical factors. She explained that her experiences in journalism and authorship have shaped her political perspective.
“Storytelling teaches you to listen, and leadership begins with listening,” she said. “As a journalist, I’ve interacted with market women, security experts, and world leaders. I’ve seen how policies affect people’s daily lives. Writing political thrillers and investigative pieces has sharpened my sense of accountability—because when you write the truth, you can’t hide from it yourself.”
On the upcoming governorship election in Anambra State, Uchegbu urged residents to prioritize competence over money or influence from political godfathers. “This election is an opportunity to set the tone for credible governance nationwide. INEC must guarantee transparency, protect voters from intimidation, and ensure leaders are chosen for their ability to build, not just campaign,” she added.
Uchegbu outlined her campaign approach as grassroots, tech-driven, and people-funded, stressing her authenticity and connection with ordinary Nigerians. “Nigerians are tired of the same recycled manifestos. My strength is authenticity—I have walked with the people, not ruled above them,” she said.
Addressing national security challenges, Uchegbu proposed a comprehensive strategy to depoliticize security operations. She promised to launch a national forensic security audit, professionalize security forces, introduce a gender-inclusive rapid response unit, and invest in technology, including drones, AI surveillance, and community intelligence networks.
“To reduce insecurity, we must act decisively. If Nigerians feel unsafe, democracy itself is at risk,” she stated.
Uchegbu also unveiled plans to tackle corruption and youth unemployment. “We’ll declare a state of emergency on security and corruption, launch forensic audits for all ministries, digitize public spending, and create a ₦500 billion Youth Innovation and Employment Fund. Youth unemployment is both an economic and a security crisis,” she said.
Concluding her interview, Uchegbu urged Nigerians to vote with conscience and demand integrity, competence, and vision from their leaders. “Vote with your conscience, not your pocket. Protect your PVC—it’s your weapon for change. If we unite behind the right values, Nigeria’s best days can still lie ahead,” she concluded.
