I Obtained My BSc, MSc, And PhD Abroad, But I Did Not Go Into Politics Until I Returned Home -Idele

Mary Alile Idele, the National Women Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has recounted how her academic journey abroad and a life-changing experience in Nigeria shaped her path into humanitarian service.

Speaking in an interview with THE SUN on Sunday, April 26, 2026, Idele noted that she obtained her BSc, MSc, and PhD degrees overseas, but did not engage in politics during her time abroad.

She explained that her return to Nigeria during a holiday marked a turning point. According to her, she participated in a Christmas outreach organised by a group to an elderly care home, where she had anticipated seeing a properly equipped and comfortable environment.

However, Idele said she was confronted with a distressing reality, as she found elderly women lying on mats on the floor, a sight she described as both shocking and unforgettable.

She stated that the experience stirred a deep sense of responsibility in her, prompting her to establish her non-governmental organisation, Sister to Sister, with a focus on supporting vulnerable women and improving their living conditions.

In Idele’s words: “I schooled abroad. My BSc, Msc and PhD were from abroad. Although I didn’t enter politics when I was abroad, I came back home one year for holidays and decided to visit the old people’s homes for Christmas giveaway.”……See More