As momentum builds toward the 2027 general elections, concerns over the low participation of women in governance are again in focus.
A non-governmental organisation, the Nigerian League of Women Voters, Niger State chapter, is urging members of the National Assembly to support the passage of the Special Seats for Women Bill to boost female representation.
The Chairperson of the League, Mariam Kolo, made the call during the presentation of a petition to federal lawmakers in Minna, stressing the need for legislators to mobilise support for the proposed legislation.
The Nigerian League of Women Voters says it has commenced the submission of petitions to members of the House of Representatives across federal constituencies.
The group notes that its demand is anchored on Nigeria’s international commitments, including the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women and the Maputo Protocol.
According to the chairperson, Mariam Kolo, the passage of the bill would serve the best interest of women and the country, urging lawmakers to prioritise legislation aimed at increasing women’s representation in governance.
Banking on women’s numerical voting strength, Kolo also called for an emergency sitting of the National Assembly to fast-track deliberations and ensure timely passage of the bill, warning that delays could further hinder inclusive governance.
The League also appealed to governments at all levels, particularly governors supportive of women’s inclusion, to back the initiative and ensure its successful passage, noting that women constitute a significant voting population deserving of fair representation.
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The group maintains that increased female representation in governance would improve outcomes in health, education, and community development, while strengthening democracy and national unity.
(Editor: Ada Ononye)
