Reserved Seats Bill: Women, youth political leaders demand immediate passage

From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja

The Forum of National Women Leaders of Political Parties in Nigeria, in collaboration with the Youth Leaders of Political Parties, has called for urgent passage of the Reserved Seats for Women Bill currently before the National Assembly.

They made the call at the end of their dialogue and strategy session on the Special Seats Bill, at the Wells Carlton Hotel in Asokoro, Abuja, stressing that the bill was crucial for correcting gender imbalances and deepening democratic inclusion in Nigeria.

Addressing a press conference at the end of the meeting, President of the Forum, Amina Bryhn, declared: “The Reserved Seats for Women Bill is not just a women’s issue, it is a national imperative. It seeks to correct long-standing gender imbalances and ensure that women, who form the backbone of our democracy, are fully represented in governance.”

Bryn, who addressed the press alongside Elizabeth Nwokeocha, Organising Secretary, Anita Chukwu, Financial Secretary, Sa’adatu Abdullahi, Media and Publicity and Rahinatu Mohammed, Secretary, emphasised the forum’s commitment to intensified sensitisation campaigns within political parties. They aim to clarify the Bill’s purpose, foster collaboration between male and female politicians and engage grassroots members with a unified advocacy message to highlight how the bill will strengthen representation and deepen Nigeria’s democracy.

On their expectations from lawmakers, Bryhn said: “We call on the leadership and members of the National Assembly to give this bill expeditious passage. The time for promises is over, the time for action is now. This is an opportunity for our lawmakers to make history, by enacting legislation that will transform Nigeria’s political landscape for generations to come.”

They also appealed to President Bola Tinubu and the executive arm of government to demonstrate leadership by supporting and assenting to the bill once passed. “Doing so will demonstrate commitment to equity, fairness and inclusion,” the Forum stressed.

The Forum reaffirmed its resolve to collaborate with all political parties to publicly endorse the bill and promote women’s inclusion through internal reforms, mentorship programmes and active support of female candidates.

The leaders called on civil society, traditional rulers, faith leaders, media and development partners to rally behind the bill. “Let us mobilise, sensitise and sustain advocacy until the Reserved Seats Bill becomes law,” they urged.

“To our fathers, brothers and husbands, this is not a fight against men but a call to partnership. Empowering women strengthens families and communities and builds a better Nigeria for all,” the statement added.

Recognising international support, the Forum also appreciated development partners and urged them to continue providing technical and advocacy assistance to amplify the voice of women in politics.

In conclusion, Bryhm stated: “The Reserved Seats for Women Bill must be passed now, not tomorrow, not later, but now. This is not just legislation; it is a rallying point for justice, democracy and nation-building.”

They ended with a call for all Nigerians, including lawmakers, political leaders, traditional institutions, civil society, and citizens, to unite for the historic passage of the bill, marking a new era of inclusive governance in Nigeria.