THE House of Representatives is considering a bill to reserve seats for women in the National Assembly (NASS).
This was revealed by the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu while delivering his goodwill message yesterday night in Owerri, the capital of Imo State, at the 2nd Women of Divine Destiny Initiative (WODDI) Inspiring Women Summit (WIWS 2024).
“We must acknowledge, however, that in a society striving for equitable development, addressing fundamental issues like gender equality and inclusiveness is imperative. In Nigeria, where women and girls constitute 49.32% of our population, the representation in institutions and governance needs urgent attention,” he said at the event with the theme: Illuminating the Power of an Inspired Woman.
“Presently, the House of Representatives is considering a bill to improve the representation of women in our legislative institutions sponsored by myself and other colleagues of mine.”
The deputy speaker’s Chief Press Secretary, Levinus Nwabughiogu, stated that the measure is titled “Seat Reservation Bill”. He and some of his colleagues co-sponsored the legislation.
The bill aims to amend the Federal Republic of Nigeria’s Constitution to include special seats for women in the legislature.
He also stated that a social development initiative called the Peace In South East Project (PISE-P) had addressed gender issues in its programmes.
“By also targeting young women as beneficiaries, PISE-P employs non-violent methods to foster peace and development across South-East, Nigeria,” he said.
“This combined approach, honoring the past while actively shaping the future for Nigerian women is the key to achieving lasting progress.”
WODDI is a non-profit organisation formed by Nkechi Okorocha, wife of former Imo State Governor Rochas Okorocha. It empowers women and helps them attain their dreams.
