By Chioma James
In a powerful display of unity and determination, over 750 Nigerian women from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory converged in Abuja today, September 22, 2025, to push for a landmark constitutional amendment. The women, representing a cross-section of Nigerian society, marched peacefully from the Maryam Babangida National Centre for Women Development to the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, where leadership of the National Assembly was expected to receive a memorandum in support of the Special Seats Reserved for Women Bill.
The march, organized by the Women’s Political Participation–Technical Working Group (WPP–TWG), was a show of strength and resolve by Nigerian women to secure their rightful place in the country’s governance structures. “This bill isn’t just about numbers; it’s about securing women’s rightful place in governance,” said Ebere Ifendu, Chair of the WPP–TWG. “It’s about ensuring Nigerian women’s voices are heard where decisions affecting their lives are made.”
The proposed amendment to the 1999 Constitution seeks to reserve seats for women in the National Assembly and State Houses of Assembly. Advocates of the bill argue that this reform is crucial for strengthening inclusive governance and ensuring that women’s perspectives shape decisions on issues like education, healthcare, economic empowerment, and security – areas that significantly impact women and families nationwide.
Ebere Ifendu emphasized the importance of media support in raising awareness about the bill and pushing for its passage. “An ally we’ve had so far in this journey in getting the Special Seats Reserved for Women Bill is the media. Now at this critical moment, we need the media to forge ahead as a true ally to raise critical awareness on the bill for the legislators to pass it,” she stated.
Despite the challenges of limited representation and societal barriers, Nigerian women remain resolute in their quest for equal participation in governance. Advocates argue that increased representation would lead to more inclusive policies addressing issues affecting women and families nationwide. The bill’s passage could be a significant step toward bridging the gender gap in Nigeria’s political landscape.
Some key stakeholders in Nigeria’s political sphere have expressed support for the idea of increasing women’s representation in governance. The Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development has urged constitutional reforms to guarantee reserved seats for women in legislatures. The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, believes the bill will ensure fair representation of women in governance, not tokenism.
As Nigeria navigates its democratic journey, the debate on reserved seats for women continues. Proponents believe this reform could be a game-changer for inclusive governance, while others discuss the best approaches to implementation. What remains clear is the determination of Nigerian women to have a seat at the decision-making table.