By Fidel Njamanze

“President Goodluck Jonathan has improved the banking and industrial sectors. The infrastructure is far better than he found it. New schools and universities have been constructed. He wants Nigeria to become a modern country, a First World country”

President Goodluck Jonathan

These were the words of the deputy chairman, finance committee of the PDP Presidential Campaign Organization, Dr. Ngozi Olejeme on Saturday.

Olejeme told prominent women political leaders in the country that President Jonathan was committed to removing the barrier that stand in their way.

“He is addressing problem of parity and partnership, economic independence and political participation”

Olejeme who pondered over the future of the Nigerian State not only applauded President Jonathan’s wisdom in putting round pegs in round holes but said that for Nigeria to move to the next level “the people, particularly women, must vote Jonathan”

“President Jonathan is the best among all those running for the 2015 presidential election. He understands the needs of the people” she said.

At a meeting in Abuja to discuss the legacy of President Jonathan, Olejeme extolled the President for his vision, zeal and extraordinary commitment to the growth and development of the Nigerian State, describing him as a man of excellence.

The PDP chieftain urged Nigerians to judge President Jonathan on the basis of his work.

“We have a president that is governing for the peace, welfare and good government of the country. We have a president that is making decisions and taking actions, including public appointments, in the public interest without regard to personal or other immaterial considerations. We have a president that is treating all people equally without permitting any person or corporation special access or influence. We have a president that is informing the public of all decisions and actions. President Jonathan is committed to the principles of accountability and good governance”

She advised the electorate to insist on the leader who has ability to provide service to the nation.

“We live in a country where there is respect for rule of law, unlimited environment for mutual conversation with the powers that be.

She also urged the youths to vote for the ruling PDP’s candidate Dr. Goodluck Jonathan

“President Jonathan needs to preserve all positive changes achieved so far”.

Meanwhile, the Deputy Chairman, Finance Committee of the PDP Presidential Campaign Organization, Dr. Ngozi Olejeme on Saturday reflected on the acts of courage and determination made by women in the fight for equality so far, praising President Goodluck Jonathan for elevating women in the country.

“We have witnessed a transformation in women’s participation in public life. More women are exercising leadership in politics and business, more girls are going to school” she said.

In her message for International Women’s Day 2015, Olejeme urged women to make an informed decision when choosing the next president of the country.

 “Nigeria is moving in the right direction. Women have received reasonable positions in government at the federal level. President Jonathan is promoting girl education in remote villages. We have the environment conducive to business investments and trade. We have policies that are expanding the economy. There is the rule of law in this country. The Jonathan led People’s Democratic Party government is committed to fiscal prudence” she said.

Olejeme advised Nigerian men to move beyond rhetoric and take action to improve the quality of life of women by removing the many obstacles that impede full and equal participation by women at so many levels.

“Women must exercise their choices; they must participate in politics, have income, and live in societies free from violence and discrimination. Women must have access to education and play a full role in the communities’ decision-making processes” she said.

Olejeme who is also the chairman of Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) urged women to redouble their efforts to achieve gender equality.

She stressed the need for Nigerian women to be guided by a three- word motto: Together We Build.

“We must keep our eyes on the long -range prize for self and country. We must take an active part in the coming elections and structures that will emerge from these elections”.

On what she knows would take Nigeria forward this month, Olejeme advised Nigerian women to vote for Dr. Goodluck Jonathan.

“A vote for PDP is a vote for progressive policies, high management capacity and vision for serious challenges besetting Nigeria. It is also a vote for inspiring health facilities.”