Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, has called on political stakeholders, civil society, and institutional leaders to support the passage of gender-focused bills aimed at increasing women’s representation in Nigeria’s legislative bodies.

Speaking during a Town Hall and Strategic Roundtable on the Reserved Seats for Women Bill in Abuja, Abbas stressed that the event was more than a symbolic gathering it was a defining step towards inclusive governance in line with Agenda 6 of the 10th House Legislative Agenda on Inclusion and Open Parliament.

Highlighting the underrepresentation of women in Nigerian politics, Abbas described the gender bills currently before the National Assembly as “urgent and pragmatic.” He emphasized that the proposals seek to guarantee fairer political representation through special seats at federal and state legislative levels.

Among the bills, HB 1189, HB 1349, and HB 1421 propose:

  • One additional female senator per state and the FCT.
  • For the House of Representatives, two additional female members per state (HB 1189 and HB 1421), and one per state (HB 1349).
  • One additional female member from each senatorial district in State Houses of Assembly.
  • Division of states into new constituencies reserved for women by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Abbas also referenced a bill proposing six reserved seats in the House of Representatives for women and persons with disabilities across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. The selection process would involve regional electoral colleges, with all aspirants meeting standard qualifications.

While acknowledging concerns about the feasibility of large constituencies and campaign costs for women, the Speaker argued that the proposals are designed to correct longstanding imbalances caused by economic barriers, political gatekeeping, and cultural stereotypes.

“These temporary special measures are globally accepted tools for bridging gaps in representation,” he stated. “They expand democracy, not weaken it.”

He clarified that no current seat would be lost under the proposed arrangement, emphasizing that the bills aim to expand representation, not replace it. A sunset clause is included, mandating a review 16 years after implementation.

To support the passage and implementation of the bills, Abbas announced the formation of a Joint Working and Strategy Advocacy Committee, made up of the House Committee on Women Affairs and the Committee on Women in Parliament. The committee will drive media engagement, stakeholder mobilisation, and legislative follow-up.

He also proposed establishing a Reserved Seats Desk in both the Senate and House of Representatives, as well as in state Houses of Assembly, to institutionalize advocacy and ensure sustained momentum.

“These efforts are about opening avenues for equity,” Abbas concluded, “and ensuring Nigeria’s legislature truly reflects its diverse population.”