In a political space long dominated by men, some women under the All Progressives Congress (APC) have secured their spots in the race for local government chairmanship. 

Lagos is gearing up for its local government elections on July 12, and this time, something different is happening. Women are not just showing up, they’re stepping up. 

Their candidacy is not just symbolic, it’s part of a bigger push for gender inclusion at the grassroots level. Backed by party policies aimed at empowering women and driven by a commitment to change, these women are poised to make their mark. Let’s meet the ten women leading the charge.

Olayemi Animasahun (Epe Council)

Known for her grassroots appeal, Animasahun didn’t just enter the race, she won her ticket through consensus. Her ability to unite stakeholders within the party and earn widespread respect speaks volumes about her leadership style. Her previous service to the council has made her a trusted name in Epe.

Motunrayo Alogba (Ijede LCDA)

Alogba is another candidate who emerged through consensus, a clear sign of her popularity within the APC structure in Ijede. She’s not new to leadership and brings a vision focused on continuity and progress in local development.

Samiat Bada (Ikosi-Ketu LCDA)

Among the most prominent of the ten, Bada is an incumbent who has already delivered several developmental projects in Ikosi-Ketu. Her track record earned her a second term ticket, and she’s widely respected for being accessible and results-driven.

Muibat Rufai (Ojo Local Government)

Rufai is among the fresh faces in the chairmanship race, but she’s far from inexperienced. She has long been involved in local politics and is well-known for championing community-based initiatives and women’s participation in governance.

Yemi Akindele Adunni (Mosan-Okunola LCDA)

Adunni stands out for her strong educational background and her role in community development projects. Her focus has been on youth empowerment and education, and many in her LCDA believe she will bring a reform-driven agenda to the table.

Idowu Senanjo (Apapa Local Government)

Senanjo has been a visible figure in Apapa politics for years. Known for her grassroots mobilisation skills, she has earned her place as a voice for women and the underserved in the area. Her candidacy is seen as a step towards balanced leadership in the port city.

Tola Oyedele-Abubakar (Agboyi-Ketu LCDA)

Oyedele-Abubakar brings a blend of administrative experience and community engagement. Her work in health outreach and youth programs has made her a recognisable figure in Agboyi-Ketu, and she’s determined to improve service delivery in her community.

Bukola Omope (Bariga LCDA)

Omope has long been a foot soldier in the APC and is now stepping into the spotlight. Her work with women cooperatives and skills acquisition programmes in Bariga has given her a strong support base, especially among market women and local entrepreneurs.

Aminat Alabi (Iru/Victoria Island LCDA)

Alabi represents the blend of modern leadership and traditional values. She has been active in policy advocacy and has worked closely with youth organisations in Iru/Victoria Island. Her campaign is centred on inclusive urban governance and security.

Adeola Adetoro (Eti-Osa Local Government)

Adetoro is pushing for innovation in governance. With a background in civic engagement and digital communication, she’s resonating with younger voters who want a more transparent and participatory government. She’s promising to open up the council’s workings to public scrutiny and input.

What you should know

The emergence of these ten women is part of a broader effort within Lagos APC to support female aspirants. From reducing nomination fees to offering special consideration in the screening process, the party appears to be taking gender inclusion more seriously than ever before.

Even more promising is the fact that many of these women didn’t just benefit from policy they earned their tickets through consensus and performance. APC Women Leader Jumoke Okoya-Thomas called it “a changed moment,” highlighting the party’s renewed interest in allowing women to contribute their quota.

As the July elections draw near, these women represent a shift in local governance, and perhaps a glimpse into the future of Nigerian politics.