The Managing Director of the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), Chief Festus Ochonogor, has urged young women in Ndokwa Nation to become more actively involved in leadership roles, particularly in grassroots politics.
Ochonogor gave the advice on Friday during an interactive meeting with young women in ward two aged between 18 and 35 drawn from various villages that make up ward two in Ndokwa West LGA.
The meeting was held at Etua-Etiti, where participants gathered to discuss the importance of women’s participation in political activities within their ward and party.
The engagement was aimed at deeping their understanding of governance, growth and leadership in a contemporary democratic setting.
The event, organised by young women in ward two, recorded a large turnout as participants received guidance and encouragement from political leaders and community stakeholders on how they can take more active roles in local political structures.
Addressing the gathering, Ochonogor, who initiated the meeting, urged the young women to take advantage of opportunities within their wards and political parties to contribute to leadership and decision-making processes at both the community and broader political levels.
According to him, increased participation of women at the grassroots will strengthen political representation, promote inclusive leadership and enhance peace-building initiatives within communities.
To inspire the participants, he cited the example of the female chairperson of APC in Ward 2 in Ndokwa West, Who was elected as a way of encouraging women participation politics in the ward.
He said the development demonstrates that women can successfully compete for leadership positions and urged the younger generation to prepare themselves to assume leadership roles in the future.
Ochonogor noted that while the current ward chairperson is performing effectively, younger women should begin positioning themselves for future leadership opportunities when they arise.
He also advised the participants not to neglect the wisdom and experience of older members of their communities when they eventually assume leadership positions.
According to him, young leaders should always consult and learn from those who have previously served in leadership roles.
The DESOPADEC boss further cautioned the young women against participating in politics solely for financial gain.
“Everything is not about money. What is important is commitment and loyalty to the party. When you work sincerely, those at the top are observing your efforts and recognising your contributions,” he said.
Ochonogor added that political leaders are aware of the efforts being made by grassroots supporters, even in remote communities, noting that several individuals from the region have been supported into leadership positions over the years.
He explained that while many men from the area have benefited from political opportunities in the past, the time has come for women to receive stronger support and encouragement to help them grow and succeed in leadership.
Also speaking at the event, the Chairman of Ndokwa West Local Government Area, Chief Goddey Obi-Nzete, encouraged the young women to remain determined and focused in pursuing their political ambitions.
Nzete advised them to stay committed to their goals and learn from the strategies and activities already being deployed by male politicians within the political system, noting that discipline, patience and dedication are essential qualities for success in politics.
One of the organisers of the programme, Vivian Okwubale, said the initiative was designed to mobilise more young women to participate in politics and take advantage of leadership opportunities within their communities.
She explained that the DESOPADEC Managing Director initiated the gathering to bring together young women across the wards and encourage them to become politically active.
According to her, the meeting provided a platform for participants to learn more about grassroots political participation and understand how they can contribute to the development of their communities through active involvement in political processes.
