Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has urged the National Assembly to set a historic precedent by passing the Reserved Seats for Women Bill, a legislation designed to significantly expand women’s representation in governance.
She made the call on Friday during a dinner she hosted at the State House, Abuja, in honour of Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, and other principal officers of the 10th National Assembly.
The bill seeks to create 182 additional seats exclusively for women across the national and state legislatures. Advocates say this is necessary to correct the long-standing gender imbalance in Nigeria’s political space, where women currently occupy less than 5% of elective positions.
Oluremi Tinubu emphasized that increased female participation is essential for national development, noting that the bill offers the 10th Assembly an opportunity to “make history” and cement its legacy as a parliament that championed gender inclusion.
She urged lawmakers to demonstrate “courage, foresight, and commitment to equity” by approving the bill, which has been reintroduced after previous failed attempts.
The First Lady reiterated that gender-balanced leadership strengthens democracy and national progress, adding that Nigerian women are ready to contribute more meaningfully if granted the legislative space.
The National Assembly leadership in attendance commended the First Lady’s advocacy, noting that the conversation around women’s political empowerment is long overdue.
Post a Comment
Join the conversation!
Have insights, corrections, or questions about this news story? Drop your comment below. We value civil, fact-based discussion.