Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has called for greater access to education, finance, and leadership opportunities for women, saying such measures are key to societal and economic progress.

Obi made the remarks on Tuesday in Banjul, The Gambia, while speaking at the REFELA National Conference, themed “Accelerating Representation, Safeguarding, and Strengthening Women’s Rights.”

He aligned his address with this year’s International Women’s Day theme, “Give to Gain,” emphasizing that national prosperity is linked to investments in human capital, particularly women.

“When women are given equal access to education, finance, and leadership opportunities, they become not just participants but critical drivers of national development,” Obi said.

The former Anambra State governor stressed that countries that invest deliberately in their citizens, especially women and youth, experience stronger economies and more stable societies.

Obi urged African nations, including Nigeria and The Gambia, to adopt aggressive and strategic measures to develop human capital.

He highlighted the importance of prioritizing education, healthcare, skills development, and economic inclusion for women and young people as a foundation for sustainable growth.

“Prioritizing these areas ensures long-term development and strengthens the capacity of nations to achieve prosperity,” Obi added.

The conference brought together policymakers, activists, and civil society leaders to discuss strategies for enhancing women’s representation and safeguarding their rights across Africa.

Obi concluded that deliberate investment in women’s empowerment is not only a moral imperative but also a practical pathway to national and continental development.