The Forum of National Women Leaders of Political Parties in Nigeria (NWLFPPN) has urged the National Assembly to urgently pass the Reserved Seats for Women Bill, describing it as a historic step toward gender inclusion, equity, and stronger democratic governance.
The reserved seat bill seeks the creation of additional seats exclusively reserved for women in the federal parliament and at the state assemblies.
Speaking at a media briefing in Abuja, the forum’s president, Mrs. Amina Darasimi Bryhm, said the time for promises was over, emphasising the need for immediate legislative action.
‘The time for action is now. We urge the National Assembly to rise to the occasion and pass this Bill without delay. It is not just a women’s issue; it is a national imperative,’ Bryhm said. She further appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to demonstrate leadership and stand with Nigerian women by assenting to the Bill once passed. ‘This is the moment to make history,’ she said.
The forum criticised the persistent gender imbalance in Nigeria’s political structures, calling on political parties and government institutions to move beyond rhetoric and take concrete legislative steps toward inclusivity.
‘How can you have 50 percent of the population underrepresented? How does it look when only four women sit in a 109-member Senate, or just 16 in the 360-member House of Representatives?’ Bryhm asked.
According to the forum, the Bill represents a crucial constitutional amendment that would not only enhance women’s visibility in governance but also strengthen Nigeria’s democracy, deepen representation, and promote sustainable national development.
The women leaders insisted that Nigerian women possess the capacity, competence, and integrity to lead and must be provided with the platform to do so.
‘Before you ask what women will do with the seats, we must first sit at the table. Women’s presence ensures that issues affecting not only women but also children, youth, and people with disabilities are addressed. We bring accountability to the table,’ they said.
They stressed that the advocacy was not about filling quotas but about ensuring that qualified, credible, and capable women occupy leadership positions.
Addressing questions about past setbacks, including the failed presidential bid of Sarah Jibril, the forum said today’s generation of women is more prepared, coordinated, and supported than ever before.
‘Sarah Jibril broke the chain. Today, we are intentional. We have a structure, we have strategy, and we are not backing down. This time, we will get it right,’ the forum affirmed.
They called on women’s organizations, youth groups, civil society, traditional rulers, faith leaders, and the media to rally behind the Bill.
The forum also appealed for continued support from development partners to provide technical assistance and amplify the advocacy.