President Muhammadu Buhari on Monday urged residents of Adamawa to vote for the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Aisha Dahiru Ahmed-Binani.

Addressing supporters at the Lamido of Adamawa Palace, Mr Buhari said that Mrs Binani becoming the first female governor in Nigeria will send a positive signal to the world about the country’s leadership maturity as well as widen opportunities for women in politics.

The president affirmed his support for the gubernatorial candidate and pledged to continue his moral support for her in the forthcoming general election.

“I came here to make sure that from the end of Nigeria to other places, I want to identify with the candidate, Binani, and other candidates.

“We are here to ensure that Sen. Binani becomes the first female elected governor God willing. Her election will speak to Nigeria and the world through Adamawa State.

“I thank you very much for all the support. I want everyone to support her to win. And for those in opposition to us, I wish them the best of luck,” he said.

Mr Buhari said Nigerian women had for long fought to be part of governance, saying it was time to allow them take part in the country’s leadership.

Speaking in appreciation, the state governor, Ahmad Umaru Fintiri, who described Adamawa as the president’s second home, thanked him for all he has been doing for the state.

“I want to use this opportunity to welcome you to your second home, Adamawa State.

“We want to thank you for various and several projects in Adamawa. All our proposals for the state have been approved. We will not get tired of receiving you in the state. We will continue to pray for you. We love you and admire you.

“You have done well and surpassed what is expected of a leader. I wish you well and all the best in the campaigns,” the governor added.

Furthermore, the Lamido of Adamawa, Muhammadu Barkindo Aliyu, thanked the president for the developments in the state, which include the appointment of Adamawa citizens into various federal agencies and MDAs.

Mr Buhari had, when he came into power in 2015, maintained that his wife had no official duty as first lady, and had ordered her to serve him in a domestic capacity.

However, his turnaround to support a female candidate for the Adamawa’s governorship position, may suggest a change in his stance on the role of women in the country’s politics.