Women’s groups and gender advocates are intensifying pressure on the National Assembly ahead of the December 10, 2025 debate on the Reserved Seats for Women Bill.
At a stakeholders’ roundtable organised by the Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre (PLAC) in Abuja, speakers emphasised the need to mobilise male lawmakers to support the legislation aimed at increasing women’s political representation.
The Chairman of the House Committee on Women Affairs, Mrs. Khafilat Ogbara, described the bill as a crucial step towards gender equality and commended the President and First Lady for backing the initiative.
Hon Blessing Amadi urged women to remain gentle persuasive advocates in appealing to male colleagues.
International partners also voiced strong support. The EU Deputy Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Zissimos Vergos, said greater inclusion of women would boost the nation’s economy, while UK Deputy High Commissioner Gill Atkinson stressed that governance becomes more transparent when women are part of decision-making.
Women in Politics Forum President Mrs. Ebere Ifemdu expressed optimism that the National Assembly and President Tinubu will approve the bill, noting ongoing advocacy with traditional and religious leaders.
APC Women Leader Mrs. Mary Alile Idele said the unity among women leaders across political parties shows the seriousness of the effort.
Minister of Women Affairs, Mrs. Imaan Sulleiman, called for intensified engagement with lawmakers, while PLAC Executive Director Clement Nwankwo, emphasised the need for more public awareness, expressing confidence that state legislatures will follow once the federal bill is passed.
Stakeholders agreed that the passage of the bill would mark a historic achievement for the 10th National Assembly and advance women’s political inclusion in Nigeria.