Women’s advocacy groups, Rivers Women Unite for SIM (RWUS) and the Toby Jug Foundation, have called for the passage of the Special Seat for Women Bill currently before the National Assembly, describing it as a critical step toward achieving gender-balanced representation in Nigeria’s political space.
The groups made the call in a joint statement issued on Saturday to commemorate the 2026 International Women’s Day.
In the statement jointly signed by Comrade Glory Sunday for RWUS and Grace Dappa for the Toby Jug Foundation, the organisations joined women and stakeholders across Nigeria and the world to celebrate the contributions of women to national development while advocating stronger political inclusion.
They noted that International Women’s Day, officially recognised by the United Nations, serves not only as a celebration but also a moment for reflection and renewed commitment to advancing gender equity, inclusion, and participation of women in governance and decision-making.
The statement highlighted this year’s theme, “Give to Gain,” as a reminder that investing in women unlocks growth, innovation, and resilience that benefits society as a whole.
According to the groups, Nigerian women—from rural farmers and market leaders to professionals and public servants—continue to play significant roles in national development despite limited representation in political offices.
They expressed concern that Nigeria remains among countries with low female representation in elective positions across Africa, noting that women’s presence in the Senate, House of Representatives, and State Houses of Assembly remains disproportionately low.
The groups attributed the imbalance to longstanding structural and systemic barriers rather than a lack of competence among women.
They described the Special Seat for Women Bill as a corrective measure aimed at addressing historical under representation and strengthening democratic governance through inclusive leadership.
“The bill represents a strategic step toward inclusive governance and an opportunity to harness the full potential of Nigeria’s female population,” the statement said.
RWUS and the Toby Jug Foundation also called on members of the National Assembly to support the bill beyond partisan interests and urged State Houses of Assembly to back constitutional amendments that promote gender inclusion.
They further appealed to civil society organisations, religious institutions, traditional rulers, and youth groups to publicly support the proposed legislation.
The organisations encouraged Nigerian women to remain politically aware, support policies that promote gender equality, mentor younger women, and maintain unity across ethnic, religious, and political divides.
Reaffirming their commitment to women’s advancement in leadership and governance, the groups described the Special Seat for Women Bill as a necessary instrument for justice, balance, and sustainable national progress.
