Rep Ogbara Declares It’s Time to Break the Cycle — Pushes Historic Bill to Reserve 182 Legislative Seats for Women Across Nigeria
The Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Women Affairs and Social Development, Kafilat Ogbara, has urged Nigerians to support a proposed bill seeking the creation of 182 additional legislative seats exclusively for women.
Ogbara, who represents Kosofe Federal Constituency in Lagos State, made the appeal on Tuesday during a media briefing in Abuja.
She expressed concern over the low number of women in elective positions, despite their significant population, noting that it undermines the country’s commitment to inclusive governance.
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“I urge all stakeholders—government officials, civil society organisations, and citizens—to rally behind this crucial bill,” she said. “It is time to dismantle the barriers that have historically hindered women’s participation in politics and governance.”
Ogbara described the proposed legislation as a bold step toward building a more inclusive democracy. She emphasized that the bill is not just about representation but about ensuring that women’s voices and perspectives are reflected in national policymaking.
The bill proposes one reserved seat for women in both chambers of the National Assembly from each of the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. Additionally, it recommends three extra seats for women in every state House of Assembly.
“This bill is not just about increasing numbers. It’s about making sure women’s needs, rights, and experiences inform policy. It aligns with international commitments such as the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 5 on gender equality,” she said.
Supporting the bill, Senator Ireti Kingibe, who represents the Federal Capital Territory, echoed Ogbara’s sentiments. She highlighted the determination and effectiveness of women when committed to a cause.
“This bill isn’t only about more women in parliament. It’s about unlocking Nigeria’s full potential for faster and more sustainable development,” Kingibe said.
Also speaking, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Country Representative, Elsie Attafuah, commended the leadership of the 10th National Assembly for championing the bill. She described it as a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s democratic evolution.
Attafuah praised the strength and leadership of Nigerian women in various sectors, including the Super Falcons, recent champions of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations. She noted that women currently occupy less than five percent of legislative seats in Nigeria, calling it a signal to break systemic barriers and promote inclusive governance.
Nikky Onyeri, Secretary-General of the Association of Women Traditional Title Holders in Nigeria, also voiced strong support for the proposal, describing it as both timely and essential.
“We appeal to lawmakers and the executive to pass this bill. I’m optimistic, especially with President Bola Tinubu’s gender-friendly stance. The House leadership has shown strong backing, and the time is now,” Onyeri said.
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