2027: Iwambe emerges Benue’s first female gov’ship aspirant, unveils agenda

By Peter Duru, Makurdi

In a historic development ahead of the 2027 general elections, Mrs. Msurshima Iwambe has declared her intention to contest for the governorship of Benue state, becoming the first female aspirant to join the race.

Iwambe, a seasoned public servant and education administrator, made her declaration in Makurdi while addressing journalists, party faithful and supporters, outlining her vision for a secure and prosperous Benue.

A 1998 graduate of Public Administration from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, who hails from Konshisha Local Government Area, LGA, said she brings over 25 years of service at the Benue State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), where she rose to the directorate cadre.

Addressing the gathering, Iwambe, who is running on the platform of the All Progressives Congress, APC, said her decision was driven by a deep sense of responsibility and a desire to confront the pressing challenges facing the state.

She acknowledged the contributions of past leaders but stressed that the state still faces significant hurdles, including insecurity, economic hardship and displacement of communities.

“Our state is confronted by serious security challenges, economic hardship, displacement of communities and a weakening of key social institutions. These realities demand a leadership approach that is both firm and compassionate,” she said.

The governorship hopeful emphasised the need for inclusive leadership, noting that women have demonstrated strong leadership capabilities globally and within Nigeria. “The time has come for Benue state to benefit from this perspective in leadership,” she added.

Iwambe unveiled a Five-Point Agenda to drive her administration if elected. The agenda focuses on security reform and community protection, agricultural transformation and food security, functional education and healthcare systems, transparent salary and pension administration, and empowerment of women, youth and persons with disabilities.

She assured the people of her readiness to tackle insecurity and improve workers and retirees’ welfare saying “I am not presenting myself merely as an aspirant, but as a leader prepared to deliver measurable results,”

She called for unity among contenders and urged fellow aspirants to see the contest as a collective effort to reposition the state. “This is not a contest of division, but a shared mission to restore and reposition Benue State,” she noted.

While declaring her allegiance and support for the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF, Senator George Akume, Iwambe pledged to serve with humility and dedication, expressing faith in the possibility of a better Benue under inclusive leadership.

Her declaration also drew support from key stakeholders present at the event. Former SUBEB official, Dr. Margaret Bija, described Iwambe as a capable leader deserving of support.

Retired civil servant, Dr. Julie Ibu, urged Benue people to back her, saying she means well for the state; while APC elder from Konshisha LGA, Isaacs Akase, also called on the party to give women a chance and support Iwambe’s ambition.