Senator Hajiyah Ireti Kingibe’s election to the 10th National Assembly was a transformative moment for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and the representation of women in Nigerian governance. As one of only three women Senators elected in this assembly, Kingibe’s victory under the Labour Party (LP) underscores her steadfast dedication to public service and her impactful career.
At 69, Kingibe steps into her new role with a formidable blend of professional and personal experiences. Her diverse cultural heritage and extensive career trajectory distinguish her in the Nigerian political arena. Born on June 2, 1954, Kingibe embodies a rich mix of Fulani, Yoruba, Asaba, and Bonny ancestries. She is the younger sister of Ajoke Mohammed, widow of former head of state, Murtala Muhammed, and was formerly married to Ambassador Baba Gana Kingibe, a prominent political figure.
Kingibe’s educational path, beginning at Emotan Preparatory School and Queen’s College in Lagos, culminated in her earning a Civil Engineering degree from the University of Minnesota in the 1970s—a remarkable achievement at a time when few women pursued engineering.
Her career commenced in 1978 as a Quality Control Engineer with Bradley Precast Concrete Inc. She later contributed to the Minnesota Department of Transportation before returning to Nigeria in 1981. Here, she held significant roles at New Nigeria Construction Company and Lodigiani Nigeria Limited, eventually becoming a Senior Partner at Kelnic Associates in Abuja.
Politically active for over three decades, Kingibe joined the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in 1990, serving as an advisor to the party’s national chairman. Despite the turbulence of Nigeria’s military era, she remained politically engaged, later affiliating with the ANPP, PDP, and APC before her current role with the Labour Party. Her run for the FCT senatorial seat in the 2023 general elections culminated in a decisive victory.
During her campaign, Kingibe committed to addressing rural infrastructural deficits by donating her basic salary to a dedicated fund. Her multicultural background and inclusive approach resonated with voters. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) confirmed her victory amid contestations, and she received her Certificate of Return from notable figures, including Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s Presidential Candidate.
Recently, at the ECOWAS Parliament under the ECOFEPA (ECOWAS Female Parliament Association) 2024 Ordinary Session in Abuja, Kingibe delivered a poignant speech on “Rethinking Women’s Proportional Participation in Government.” She shared her two-decade-long journey to the Senate, highlighting the obstacles women face in politics. Her call to action stressed the necessity of creating opportunities for women in governance to foster gender equality, diversity, and inclusive decision-making.
As the 2nd Vice President of ECOFEPA, Kingibe reiterated her commitment to mentoring and supporting emerging women leaders. She has initiated grants and platforms for young women to voice their perspectives and engage actively. Her efforts extend to the FCT, where she has launched campaigns against human trafficking, youth empowerment through festivals and film grants, SMEDAN grants for artisans, free JAMB registration for students, and employment opportunities for NATCOM individuals.
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