EU-SDGN: Project Impact on Hon. Linda Onyinye Nwaru’s Political Career

The International Press Centre (IPC) media training programme for female candidates, supported by the EU-SDGN project, has consistently provided participants with valuable skills for managing election challenges and has also enhanced their ability to participate confidently in the wider political arena.

The Strategic Communications and Media Engagement Workshop, which took place over two days on December 12–13, 2018, in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, offered far more than standard training. For each female candidate attending, it marked a pivotal moment, providing practical experience in social media management and strategic communication that significantly enhanced their expertise.

Hon. Linda Onyinye Nwaru, of the Aligned Movement People’s Political Party, attended the workshop. Recounting her experience, she said: “The IPC has played a pivotal role in my political journey. The training provided me with hands-on communication skills, strengthened my confidence, and deeply rooted the principles of ethical leadership in my approach to public service.”

After training, I used social media to grow my audience and launched groups for campaign strategy, PVC registration, and fundraising. The results were impressive, and I started mentoring young female aspirants, sharing what I’d learned and empowering others in politics.

Although IPC is already doing incredible work, there is room to grow. First, it should intensify efforts to create safer political spaces for women—free from harassment and intimidation. More seminars on navigating unwanted advances and maintaining professionalism would be invaluable. Second, access to funding and opportunities remains a major challenge. IPC could help bridge this gap by connecting female candidates with sponsors and platforms that recognise and support women’s leadership potential.

Hon. Linda Onyinye Nwaru — a testament to the exponential increase in her Facebook followers

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