In a bid to ensure inclusiveness of women in politics, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu has made a strong case for the passage of the Seat Reservation for Women Bill (HB1349), emphasizing it is but about justice, strategy, and national prosperity.
Speaking at a 3-Day workshop on public presentation of the national women leaders forum’s operational guidelines and the roles of political parties in the passage of seat reservation for women bills (HB 1349) in Abuja on Monday, Kalu highlighted the alarming fact of 13 States in Nigeria not having any female lawmakers, lamenting that at the national level, women make up only 3.6% of the Senate and 4.7% of the House of Representatives.
He stressed that the underrepresentation is not just a statistical anomaly, but also a barrier to national progress.
Incidentally sponsored by Kalu, the proposed bill seeks to reserve seats for women in the National and State Assemblies, aiming to dismantle systemic barriers and create a legislature that mirrors the diversity of the nation.
Kalu however explained that the measure is temporary, expected to run for 4 terms, and is modeled after successful initiatives in countries like Rwanda and Senegal, where women’s representation has increased to over 40%.
He said: “Democracy thrives not merely through elections, but through inclusion. When half of our population remains underrepresented in halls of power, our democracy is not just weakened—it is incomplete. Today, 15 states in Nigeria have zero elected women in their assemblies. At the national level, women make up a meager 3.6% of the Senate and 4.7% of the House of Representatives. These figures are not just statistics; they are a stain on our collective conscience and a barrier to national progress.
“The Seat Reservation for Women Bill (HB1349), which I proudly sponsor,
seeks to alter this narrative. By reserving seats for women in the National
and State Assemblies, we aim to dismantle systemic barriers and create a
legislature that mirrors the diversity of our nation. This is not about charity—it is about justice, strategy, and national prosperity.
“As Chairman of the House Committee on Constitution Review, I am spearheading efforts to ensure our foundational law reflects 21st-century realities. HB1349 proposes a structured temporary special measure—reserved seats for women, reviewed after 16 years—to accelerate gender parity. This is not a permanent quota but a catalytic intervention, modeled after nations like Rwanda and Senegal, where similar measures boosted women’s representation to over 40%.
“Evidence shows that nations with balanced gender representation achieve higher GDP growth, better healthcare outcomes, and more innovative policymaking. For Nigeria, closing the gender gap could increase our GDP by 9% by the end of 2025. When women lead, communities thrive.
“Democracy dies in the absence of diverse perspectives. As I have
always stated, “Women belong in all places where decisions are
being made.” Reserved seats ensure women’s voices shape laws on
education, healthcare, and security—issues that disproportionately
affect them”.
Kalu encouraged Nigerians to make their input and support the passage of HB1349, stressing that this is not just a “women’s issue,” but a national issue that requires collective action.
“While the National Assembly is committed to passing HB1349, we cannot do this alone. Mobilize your 19 political parties to champion this bill at all levels. Engage state assemblies, traditional leaders, and grassroots networks. Public pressure must match political will.
“As I unveil the NWLF’s operational guidelines today, I am reminded that this is not just a document—it is a blueprint for revolution. To the women here: Your resolve has brought us this far. To men: This is not a “women’s issue”; it is Nigeria’s issue. Let us elevate our vision for Nigeria. Let us pass HB1349 not just for women, but for a stronger, fairer, and more prosperous nation”, Kalu said.
The Senate Committee Chairman on Women Affairs, Senator Ireti Kingibe said “I am deeply committed to advancing policies that will ensure greater female representation in governance. The statistics are a stark reminder of the urgent need for action—15 states without a single elected female representative in their assemblies, and women holding only four out of 109 Senate seats and 17 out of 360 in the House of Representatives. These numbers reflect a systemic challenge that we must collectively overcome.
“As we gather to deliberate on practical advocacy strategies, I commend the organizers and participants for their unwavering commitment to ensuring women’s voices are not just heard but also represented in governance. Political parties play a critical role in shaping our democracy, and their commitment to gender inclusivity is vital to bridging the existing gap.”
The National Women Leader, Hon. Amina Darasimi Ibrahim stressed on collaboration accross parties line in ensuring women participation in politics.
She said ” the roles of women in our society cannot be underestimated therefore we are committed towards addressing the unbalance in the political structure and women should be considered for participation in democracy.
The Country Director of Westminster Foundation for Democracy represented by Mrs. Olusola Folayan said ” through WFD’s support, the NWLF has made remarkable strides in establishing operational guidelines and an action plan for 2024 – 2026 which we proudly present today. This framework provides a strategic roadmap for advancing women’s political inclusion and representation in party structures and governance.
“Together we can make history by ensuring the successful passage and implementation of the special seats bills thereby securing a brighter and more equitable future for women in Nigeria politics.”
On her part, Former Minister of Women Affairs, Hon. Inna Maryam Ciroma advocated for inclusion of women in politics without cultural or religious barriers.
She argued that there is no religion that bar women from participating in politics and equal opportunities should be accorded to women in the country.
