The 2027 general elections in Nigeria are already taking shape, with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu expected to face challengers from several political parties.

Among the notable developments is the emergence of three female presidential candidates—a rare occurrence in Nigeria’s political history, where men have traditionally dominated the race for Aso Villa.

The candidates are:

• Dr. Esther Nkem Okereke of the National Rescue Movement (NRM)
• Mrs. Anita Zugwai-Chukwu of the Young Progressives Party (YPP)
• Mrs. Ada Fredrick Okwori of the National Democratic Party (NDP)

All three women emerged through their party primaries and are positioned as flagbearers for the 2027 presidential election.

Dr. Esther Nkem Okereke (NRM)

Dr. Okereke secured the NRM presidential ticket after a consensus decision at the party’s national convention in Abuja. She was endorsed by party delegates following internal consultations.

She has described her candidacy as a call to national service, focusing on issues such as insecurity, unemployment, and economic hardship. According to her, Nigeria needs leadership that restores hope and rebuilds trust in governance.

Mrs. Anita Zugwai-Chukwu (YPP)

Mrs. Zugwai-Chukwu emerged unopposed as the presidential candidate of the Young Progressives Party during its national convention in Abuja.

A former National Women’s Leader of the party, she has promised to offer Nigerians a credible alternative built on transparency, accountability, and stronger democratic institutions. She also emphasises youth and women inclusion in governance and national development.

Mrs. Ada Fredrick Okwori (NDP)

Mrs. Okwori emerged as the presidential candidate of the National Democratic Party after a consensus affirmation by party structures nationwide.

She has built her campaign around inclusive and empathetic leadership, arguing that women bring a unique perspective needed to address Nigeria’s social and economic challenges. She has also called for greater participation of women and young people in politics.

Growing participation of women

Women’s participation in Nigeria’s presidential elections has historically been low, with only a few female candidates appearing in past election cycles. Even when they contest, they often face steep competition in a male-dominated political space.

Political observers say the emergence of three female presidential candidates in 2027 reflects a gradual shift toward greater inclusion of women in leadership and decision-making roles.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has fixed 16 January 2027 for the presidential election.

The race is still developing, but these candidacies have added a notable new dimension to Nigeria’s 2027 political landscape.