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Summary
The Anambra governorship election is scheduled for November 8, 2025, with 16 political parties participating in the poll. This year, two female candidates, Chioma Grace Ifemeludike of the African Action Congress party and Ndidi Christy Olieh of the National Rescue Movement, are contesting for governor. Chioma pledges to prioritise security, agriculture, and youth empowerment, while Ndidi aims to use her political experience and leadership to move Anambra forward. Additionally, six other women are running as deputy governorship candidates across different political parties in the state.
On November 8, 2025, Anambra will hold its gubernatorial election, during which citizens will vote to elect a new leader or re-elect the incumbent. The election determines the state’s Governor, who oversees administration, implements policies, and represents the state at the national level.
Nigeria’s electoral body, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), noted that 16 out of 19 registered political parties will participate in the poll. Candidates must meet constitutional requirements, such as age and citizenship, and Anambra elections are competitive, with both major and smaller parties vying for control of state resources and policies.
Among the 16 parties, the African Action Congress (AAC) and the National Rescue Movement (NRM) nominated female governorship candidates, Chioma Grace Ifemeludike and Ndidi Christy Olieh, respectively.
Here is all you need to know about the women contesting for the governorship seats:
- Chioma Grace Ifemeludike (AAC)
Representing the African Action Congress (AAC), Chioma is the youngest candidate in the election. She hails from Eziowelle in Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State but was born in Jos, Plateau State. She studied Political Science at Anambra State University (now Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University), where she was active in student unionism and civil rights volunteering.
Her campaign has moved through major areas, including Ifite, Aroma, Regina Junction, Temp Site, Kwata, Amawbia, and Eke Awka, drawing large crowds. Chioma’s campaign emphasises three key priorities: security, agriculture, and youth empowerment. Her youth empowerment agenda includes supporting innovation and entrepreneurship through startup grants, vocational training, and business-friendly policies, while her security and agriculture plans focus on organised initiatives to improve safety and productivity in the state.
- Ndidi Christy Olieh (NRM)
Ndidi Christy Olieh, representing the National Rescue Movement (NRM), is a 40-year-old candidate recognised by INEC for the upcoming election, with Ogbe Reginald as her deputy. She currently serves as the Chairperson of Anambra State and spokesperson for her party.
Her educational qualifications include a first school-leaving certificate, NECO, and a BSc from Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka. While details about her previous political experience are limited, her candidacy reveals the NRM’s commitment to providing alternative leadership options in Anambra. Her participation further underscores the growing presence of women in the state’s political landscape.
Beyond the women contesting for the governorship election, six women from various parties are vying for the deputy governor position. They are: Ezeadili Appolonia (Accord Party), Ekwunife Uche Lilian (All Progressives Congress), Okeke Blessin Ebele (Action Peoples Party), Ugboma Happiness (Boot Party), Okaro Ifeoma Veronica (Labour Party), and Obi Chibuzo Faith (Zenith Labour Party).
This election marks a significant moment for women’s political participation in Anambra State, with a notable increase in female candidates and mobilisers compared to previous elections.
