In the ever-evolving landscape of Nigerian politics, where influence is often concentrated in the hands of a select few, Omorede Osifo has proven that determination, intelligence, and courage can break barriers.

As the Deputy National Treasurer of the All Progressives Congress (APC), she took a bold step at the recent party’s National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Abuja, challenging the status quo and advocating for greater inclusivity.

Amid a gathering dominated by men, Osifo stood her ground, calling for an expansion of the National Working Committee (NWC) to accommodate more National Deputies.

She argued that increasing the number from five to ten would create more opportunities for active participation within the party’s leadership structure. It was a moment that could have been easily dismissed, but her conviction and clarity of purpose resonated deeply with the audience, including the party’s leader, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Her intervention did not go unnoticed. President Tinubu not only acknowledged her contributions but also expressed his appreciation for the leadership of APC National Chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje, passing a vote of confidence in his stewardship. Tinubu also instructed party executives to review the APC constitution to determine the feasibility of Osifo’s proposal.

This move underscored her growing influence and her commitment to fostering a more inclusive and dynamic political party.

Recognising the importance of Osifo’s push for expansion, the President established a committee headed by Yobe State Governor, Mai Mala Buni, to assess the criteria for admitting new members into the NWC.

It was a significant development—one that aligned with Osifo’s broader vision of ensuring that all stakeholders, particularly women, have a seat at the table in shaping the party’s future.

Osifo is no stranger to breaking barriers in politics. As one of the few women occupying a senior leadership role within the APC, she has consistently championed gender inclusivity and youth engagement.

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Her rise within the party is a testament to her resilience and dedication. A seasoned politician from Edo State, she has built a reputation for hard work, loyalty, and an unyielding commitment to the APC’s growth.

Over the years, she has played instrumental roles in key campaigns, including President Tinubu’s successful presidential bid.

Beyond politics, her influence extends to critical sectors such as education, health, investment, and agriculture. She has spearheaded initiatives aimed at empowering women entrepreneurs and has been vocal about the need for increased female representation in governance.

Her leadership style reflects a rare blend of intelligence, resilience, and a deep-seated passion for development.

Osifo’s efforts at the NEC meeting align seamlessly with President Tinubu’s broader agenda of restructuring Nigeria’s economy and fostering a progressive political environment.

While Tinubu leads reforms at the national level, Osifo’s advocacy within the APC signals a shift toward a more inclusive leadership structure within the party.

Her stance at the NEC meeting was not merely an appeal for structural adjustments—it was a declaration of intent.

By drawing the attention of the President and top party officials to her proposal, she demonstrated that political influence is not solely about occupying a position but about having the courage to stand up for meaningful change.

As the APC continues to evolve, voices like Osifo’s will be instrumental in shaping its internal democracy and national impact. With her growing influence and dedication to party progress, it may only be a matter of time before she assumes even greater responsibilities within the APC and beyond.

For now, her push for inclusivity and party expansion has earned her the respect of President Tinubu and further cemented her reputation as a formidable force in Nigerian politics. In a system where many shy away from challenging the status quo, Osifo stands out as a leader who is not afraid to fight for what she believes in—a true champion of progress and representation.

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