In a powerful call to action, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, has emphasized the need for special seats for women in parliament, highlighting the alarming underrepresentation of women in Nigerian politics. Speaking at a 3-Day workshop in Abuja, Kalu stressed that the passage of the Seat Reservation for Women Bill (HB1349) is crucial for national prosperity, justice, and strategy.
The stark reality is that 15 states in Nigeria have no female lawmakers, and women make up only 3.6% of the Senate and 4.7% of the House of Representatives. This underrepresentation is not just a statistical anomaly, but also a barrier to national progress. Kalu’s 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.
A Temporary Measure for Long-Term Impact
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%. Kalu emphasized that this is not a permanent quota but a catalytic intervention to accelerate gender parity.
The Benefits of Balanced Representation
Research has shown 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 GDP by 9% by the end of 2025. When women lead, communities thrive.
A Call to Action
Kalu urged women’s groups to accelerate their advocacy efforts, mobilize support from political parties, and engage state assemblies, traditional leaders, and grassroots networks. He also 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.
As Kalu aptly put it, “Democracy dies in the absence of diverse perspectives
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. Let us elevate our vision for Nigeria and pass HB1349 for a stronger, fairer, and more prosperous nation.
LV