PDP Intentional About Women, Youth Inclusion in Leadership — John Okiyi Kalu

A frontline aspirant in the Abia State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship primary ahead of the 2027 election, Chief John Okiyi Kalu, has praised the party for what he described as a deliberate effort to promote women and youths into leadership positions.

Kalu made the remarks during a radio programme on Magic 102.9 FM monitored by our correspondent, where he stated that the PDP has become the leading political platform in Nigeria actively creating opportunities for women and young people to participate in governance.

According to him, the party is not only presenting competent governorship aspirants but is also ensuring that qualified women and youths are given strategic positions across the state.

“We’re the first party that has positioned women in a way that they’ll be part of leadership. We have women with high-class qualifications that we’re presenting in various positions,” Kalu said during the programme.

The former commissioner highlighted several female figures within the party whom he described as highly competent and accomplished professionals. He cited Anastasia Odochi Uchenna in Aba Central, describing her as a respected broadcaster, and Graceline Okoh in Ohafia North, whom he identified as a renowned human resource expert.

“They’re not just women; they’re very much qualified, just like their male counterparts, if not better than them. They’re equally young,” he added.

Kalu further disclosed that the PDP was also promoting female participation in other constituencies, including Isuikwuato and Umunneochi, as part of broader efforts to address gender imbalance in Abia politics.

The governorship hopeful argued that excluding women and youths from leadership positions would amount to slowing down development, especially at a time when Nigeria requires innovative leadership and empathetic governance.

“For a nation like Nigeria and a state like Abia that are in serious need of innovation and leaders with empathy, relegating youths and women is tantamount to underdevelopment,” he stated.

Kalu also reflected on the political history of the state, noting that many individuals often accused of past shortcomings within the PDP are currently members of the ruling party.

Speaking on his decision to join the governorship race, the former commissioner said he sees Abia State as a work in progress that requires experienced and knowledgeable leaders who understand the state’s foundation and development priorities.

He pointed to his previous service as Commissioner for Information and later Commissioner for Trade and Investment, saying his achievements in both ministries remain visible across the state, especially in Ariaria International Market and other commercial hubs.

Kalu maintained that his experience in governance and economic development positions him as a strong candidate capable of driving sustainable progress in Abia State ahead of the 2027 elections.