Female lawmakers push bill for 182 reserved seats for women

The Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Women Affairs and Social Development, Kafilat Ogbara, has called on all well-meaning Nigerians to support a bill seeking to create 182 additional legislative seats exclusively for women in Nigeria.

Ogbara, who represents Kosofe Federal Constituency, Lagos State, made the call on Tuesday while briefing newsmen in Abuja.

According to her, the poor representation of women in elective positions despite their huge number does not tell well for a country, mouthing inclusive governance.

“I urge all stakeholders, government officials, civil society organisations and citizens at large to rally behind this crucial bill.

“It is time to dismantle the barriers that have historically hindered women’s participation in politics and governance,” she said.

The Lagos lawmaker noted that the proposed legislation is not merely a legislative effort, but a courageous effort aimed at building a more inclusive democracy.

“Together, let us champion this cause and pave the way for a more equitable Nigeria-one that values and amplifies women’s voices for inclusive growth and national development,” she added.

She added that the bill proposes one additional seat per state, including the Federal Capital Territory, to be reserved for women in both chambers of the National Assembly.

It also recommends three additional reserved seats for women in each state House of Assembly.

This bill is not just about increasing numbers, it’s about ensuring that women’s perspectives, needs, and rights are reflected in policymaking. It aligns with international obligations like the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 5 on gender equality,” she stressed.

Also speaking, the lawmaker representing the Federal Capital Territory, Senator Ireti Kingibe, echoed Ogbara’s argument, noting that when women set their minds to a cause, results are always assured.

“This bill is not just about more women in parliament, it is about unlocking the full potential of our country for faster, more sustainable development,” she said.

The United Nations Development Programme Country Representative, Ms Elsie Attafuah, commended the leadership of the 10th National Assembly for championing the bill.

“This is not just a proposal; it is a defining moment in Nigeria’s democratic evolution,” she said, stressing the leadership and resilience of Nigerian women across all sectors, including the Super Falcons, champions of the recently concluded Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco

Attafuah said women currently hold less than 5% of legislative seats in Nigeria, a development she described as a call to dismantle systemic barriers and foster inclusive governance.

On her part, the Secretary-General of the Association of Women Traditional Title Holders in Nigeria, Nikky Onyeri, described the bill as timely and essential.

“We plead with lawmakers and the executive to pass this bill. I’m optimistic, especially with President Bola Tinubu’s gender-friendly disposition. The House leadership is showing strong support, and the time is now,” Onyeri said.