Gbemisola Saraki

Gbemisola Ruqayyah Saraki (born May 3, 1965) is a Nigerian politician and former Senator who has held key appointments in the Nigerian government, notably as the Minister of State for Transportation, a position she held from 2019 until 2022. She is recognized as a prominent figure in Kwara State and national politics, belonging to the influential Saraki political family. Early Life and Education Gbemisola Saraki was born in Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria. She is the daughter of the late Olusola Saraki, a highly influential Nigerian Senator and Second Republic Senate Leader, and Florence Saraki. She is also the younger sister of Bukola Saraki, a former Senate President of Nigeria and two-term Governor of Kwara State. She attended the prestigious Cheltenham Ladies College in Cheltenham, England, for her secondary education. She later pursued her tertiary education in the United States, earning a Bachelor's degree in Economics from the University of Sussex, United Kingdom, and a postgraduate degree in International Relations from the University of Abuja. Career Progression and Political Journey Saraki's political career began with her election as a member of the House of Representatives in 1999, representing the Asa/Ilorin West Federal Constituency in Kwara State. She served a single term before successfully contesting for a seat in the Senate. In 2003, she was elected as the Senator representing the Kwara Central Senatorial District under the platform of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). During her two terms in the Senate (2003–2011), she served in several key committees, including the Senate Committee on Transport and Aviation, and was known for her advocacy, particularly concerning women and youth development. In 2011, she ran for the Governorship of Kwara State but was unsuccessful. Following a period outside of elective office, she remained active in national politics, eventually aligning with the ruling party. Major Achievements and Notable Works One of Saraki's most significant appointments was her role in the executive arm of government. In 2019, President Muhammadu Buhari appointed her as the Minister of State for Transportation, where she played a crucial role in overseeing policies related to maritime and land transport infrastructure, including port modernization and railway development projects. Prior to this, she was the Chairman of the Governing Council of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA). Her political career, spanning both legislative and executive roles, marks her as one of the most enduring female politicians in Nigeria. Current Status Gbemisola Saraki continues to be an influential political figure in Nigeria. Although she concluded her term as Minister of State for Transportation in 2022, she remains a key member of her political party and a voice in national political discourse, particularly regarding the socio-economic development of Kwara State and the North-Central region.