By Douglas Princemola
The political landscape in Imo State witnessed a major development on Thursday, July 23, 2026, as the Nigerian Women Empowerment Forum (NWEF) formally inaugurated its Imo State chapter in Owerri, declaring its readiness to mobilise women across the state in support of the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the All Progressives Congress (APC), and Governor Hope Uzodimma’s anticipated senatorial ambition ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The colourful inaugural meeting, which attracted women from different parts of the state, ended with members unanimously adopting a resolution to embark on extensive grassroots mobilisation aimed at strengthening the APC’s electoral fortunes in Imo State and beyond.
Speaking shortly after the meeting with journalists, the Imo State Coordinator, Convener, and Founder of the forum, Comr. Mrs. Blessing Nwogwugwu (née Onwumere), described the gathering as a historic milestone in the forum’s quest to promote women’s participation in politics and support leadership that aligns with the group’s vision.
According to her, the Nigerian Women Empowerment Forum was established to serve as a platform for empowering women politically, encouraging active civic participation, and mobilising support for leaders and policies the forum believes will advance national development.
Mrs. Nwogwugwu said members of the forum unanimously resolved to throw their full weight behind President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027, expressing confidence in his leadership and the direction of his administration.
She also stated that the forum is committed to working for the electoral success of all APC candidates during the 2027 general elections, stressing that women remain one of the strongest pillars of democratic participation and political mobilisation across Nigeria.
Speaking on the political future of Imo State, the NWEF leader disclosed that the forum would equally support Governor Hope Uzodimma should he contest for the Orlu Zone Senatorial District seat in 2027, describing him as a leader whose experience would continue to benefit both the state and the nation.
Mrs. Nwogwugwu called on women across the 27 local government areas of Imo State to unite under the forum’s vision by actively participating in voter education, grassroots sensitisation, and community engagement ahead of the elections.
She noted that women possess enormous political influence because of their numbers, organisational strength, and active presence at the grassroots, urging them to channel that strength towards promoting peaceful, credible, and democratic elections.
The NWEF founder further appealed to members to immediately commence door-to-door mobilisation, especially in rural communities, where they would encourage eligible voters to obtain their voter credentials, participate in the electoral process, and support APC candidates at all levels.
She also urged members to remain vigilant throughout the election period and ensure that every legitimate vote cast for the party is protected in accordance with the provisions of the Electoral Act and other relevant guidelines.
Mrs. Nwogwugwu said the forum would continue to expand its membership across the state through sustained engagement with women, youth groups, professionals, market women, artisans, and community leaders, with the objective of building a strong grassroots network ahead of the 2027 polls.
She expressed appreciation to members who attended the inaugural meeting, describing their commitment as a clear indication that women are prepared to play a more active role in shaping the political future of Imo State and Nigeria.
The meeting concluded with renewed optimism and a collective pledge by members to intensify mobilisation efforts across the state while promoting unity, peaceful political participation, and support for the APC as preparations for the 2027 general elections gather momentum.
