Women’s groups in Katsina State have welcomed the emergence of Hajiya Jamila Abdu-Mani as the only female candidate in the state ahead of the 2027 general elections, describing the development as a milestone for women’s inclusion in politics. 

Ms Abdu-Mani emerged on Saturday as the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for Bindawa/Mani Federal Constituency seat after winning the party’s House of Representatives primary election.

The Katsina State Technical Working Committee (TWC) on Women, Peace and Security, while addressing newsmen in Katsina, said the victory marked a significant breakthrough for women’s political participation in the state.

The chairperson of the committee, Hajiya Bilkisu Nasir-Yashe, said the emergence of Ms Abdu-Mani was the first time since 1999 that a woman had secured a major political party ticket for the constituency.

She described the development as a victory for democracy, inclusiveness and female representation in governance.

She said, “The emergence of Hajiya Jamila Abdu-Mani is not just a win for women in Mani and Bindawa, but a victory for democracy in Katsina State.

“Her candidacy has become a symbol of hope and inspiration for women and the girl-child aspiring to contribute meaningfully to governance and leadership.”

Ms Nasir-Yashe disclosed that the committee was planning a conference to celebrate the achievement and further promote women’s participation in politics and governance.

According to her, the conference will bring together policymakers, civil society organisations, development partners and women leaders to discuss strategies for inclusive leadership and expanding opportunities for women in governance.

She noted that sustainable peace, democratic development and effective governance could only be achieved when women were adequately represented in political decision-making processes.

Hajiya Adama Sule-Bakori, a member of the TWC, also expressed delight over the emergence of a female candidate for the constituency, saying the development would boost the morale of women across the state.

“We are very happy over the emergence of a woman as the candidate. We are confident that she will make a good representative because she is hardworking, committed and dedicated to the development of her people,” she said.

Ms Sule-Bakori added that the committee would present a letter of appreciation to the APC leadership and another of support and encouragement to the candidate. 

(NAN)