Nigeria is a country filled with extraordinary women. They are doctors, teachers, farmers, entrepreneurs, innovators, and community leaders who contribute daily to the growth of our nation. Despite these immense contributions, when it comes to politics and decision-making, women remain largely absent. Out of the 469 seats in the National Assembly, only 4 women serve as Senators and 16 as Members of the House of Representatives. At the state level, just about 55 women hold elective positions across 990 seats in the State Houses of Assembly.
This lack of representation is further reflected in the Inter-Parliamentary Union’s global ranking of women in national parliaments, where Nigeria stands at 178 out of 182 countries. Sadly, Nigeria is positioned just above only two African countries, Niger Republic and Eritrea. Niger is currently under military rule following the coup of July 2023, while Eritrea has not held elections since 1994. It is worrying that a country often referred to as the giant of Africa is ranked so low, raising an important question: why has Nigeria not done enough to ensure that women, who make up nearly half of the population, are properly represented in decision-making?
This is why the Special Seat Bill for Women is so important. The bill proposes the creation of additional seats in both the National and State Assemblies, specifically reserved for women. This is not about handing out favors; it is about fairness and inclusivity. It is about ensuring that the voices of women, who make up a vital part of Nigeria’s population, are heard and represented where laws and policies are made.
When women are part of governance, the benefits are clear. Research and global experience show that women legislators are more likely to champion issues that affect communities directly such as healthcare, education, family welfare, and social protection. Their presence leads to more balanced debates, more inclusive policies, and more sustainable development outcomes. Countries like Rwanda, Senegal, and South Africa have proven that intentional steps to include women in politics strengthen democracy and improve governance for everyone.
For Nigeria, passing this bill would be a game-changer. It would mean a more representative government, a more inclusive democracy, and a chance to unlock the full potential of our women. More importantly, it would inspire the next generation of girls to see leadership as a possibility, not just a dream.
The fact that this bill has already been introduced and passed second reading is a step in the right direction, but the work is not done. This is the moment for Nigerians, men and women, young and old to keep pushing. Advocacy must continue until this bill is not just debated but passed into law. Silence or complacency at this stage could mean losing the progress already made.
This is not only a women’s issue; it is a national issue. A democracy that excludes half its population cannot truly call itself representative. By passing the Special Seat Bill, Nigeria would be signalling to the world that it values equity, inclusivity, and progress.
Now more than ever, we must raise our voices. We must remind our lawmakers that democracy works best when everyone has a seat at the table. Let us keep advocating, keep pressing, and keep demanding until the Special Seat Bill becomes an Act. Only then can we say we are building the kind of Nigeria we all deserve.
Join the movement. Speak up, write to your representatives, share this message, and encourage conversations in your communities. Every voice matters. Together, we can ensure that the Special Seat Bill is passed into law and pave the way for a more inclusive Nigeria.
Tracy Keshi is a governance and development advocate passionate about amplifying the voices of women, persons with disability and young people in decision-making. Her work focuses on promoting inclusive leadership, accountability, and sustainable growth. She can be reached on [email protected]