Reserved Seats Bill Gains Momentum as Female Legislator Calls for Gender Equity

 National Assembly Set for Landmark Decision on Reserved Seats Bill HB 1349

The National Assembly is preparing for a defining moment in Nigeria’s democratic history as lawmakers move toward a vote on the Reserved Seats Bill (HB 1349). The Bill, aimed at increasing women’s representation in parliament, continues to gain traction as a key female legislator publicly declares her strong support for its passage.

Lawmaker Says the Bill Is a “Constitutional Correction,” Not Charity

In her statement, the lawmaker emphasized that the Reserved Seats Bill represents a necessary constitutional correction designed to address decades of gender imbalance in Nigeria’s political system. She noted that Nigerian women make up almost half of the population yet occupy less than 7% of parliamentary seats—an imbalance she argues weakens the nation’s democratic foundations.

According to her, the Reserved Seats Bill is not an act of charity but a structural reform aimed at removing long-standing barriers that prevent women from gaining equitable representation. She stressed that gender representation in Nigeria cannot remain stagnant if the country hopes to strengthen governance and accelerate development.

Why the Reserved Seats Bill Matters for Governance and Development

Drawing from her experience as a two-term legislator and Chair of the House Committee on Humanitarian Services, she highlighted how the absence of women in decision-making affects critical sectors. She pointed out that issues such as child protection, maternal healthcare, rural economies, humanitarian intervention, market systems, and social welfare all benefit when more women participate in legislative processes.

The push for gender equity in Nigeria’s political system aligns with global evidence showing that countries with increased female participation in governance enjoy stronger institutions, improved social outcomes, and reduced violence.

Civil Society and Advocacy Groups Maintain Pressure

Several advocacy organisations have echoed her stance, insisting that the Bill is essential for achieving inclusive governance. They argue that Nigeria’s political development cannot progress while structural barriers keep women underrepresented.

The lawmaker urged civil society groups to continue their mobilisation efforts, particularly as the National Assembly approaches the final vote.

Call to Lawmakers as the Nation Awaits the Vote

She called on her colleagues in the National Assembly to vote “not through fear of change but through duty to fairness,” reinforcing the idea that no group loses when representation becomes more balanced. Instead, she maintained, Nigeria stands to gain a stronger, more just, and more inclusive democratic system.

As the nation awaits the historic vote on Reserved Seats Bill HB 1349, stakeholders across gender advocacy, governance reform, and civil society will be watching closely to see whether Nigeria takes a decisive step toward correcting its long-standing representation gap.