By Mercy Aikoye
Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, has made a strong case for the passage of the Seat Reservation for Women Bill (HB1349), emphasizing its importance for national prosperity. Speaking at a 3-Day workshop in Abuja, Kalu highlighted the alarming fact that 15 States in Nigeria have no female lawmakers, and women make up only 3.6% of the Senate and 4.7% of the House of Representatives.
Kalu stressed that this underrepresentation is not just a statistical anomaly but also a barrier to national progress. He explained that the proposed bill seeks to reserve seats for women in the National and State Assemblies, aiming to dismantle systemic barriers and create a legislature that mirrors the diversity of the nation.
The Deputy Speaker emphasized that democracy thrives not merely through elections but through inclusion. He noted that when half of the population remains underrepresented in halls of power, democracy is weakened and incomplete. Kalu urged Nigerians to support the passage of HB1349, stressing that it is not just a “women’s issue” but a national issue that requires collective action.
Kalu also explained that the measure is temporary, expected to run for 4 terms, and is modeled after successful initiatives in countries like Rwanda and Senegal. He noted that in these countries, women’s representation has increased to over 40%. The Deputy Speaker emphasized that evidence shows that nations with balanced gender representation achieve higher GDP growth, better healthcare outcomes, and more innovative policymaking.
The proposed bill, HB1349, proposes a structured temporary special measure—reserved seats for women, reviewed after 16 years—to accelerate gender parity. Kalu stressed that this is not a permanent quota but a catalytic intervention to address the systemic barriers that prevent women from participating in politics.
Kalu urged various women’s groups to accelerate their advocacy efforts, mobilize support from political parties, and engage state assemblies, traditional leaders, and grassroots networks. He encouraged Nigerians to make their input and support the passage of HB1349, emphasizing that collective action is required to address this national issue.
The Deputy Speaker concluded by stating that the passage of HB1349 is not just about women’s empowerment but about creating a stronger, fairer, and more prosperous nation. He emphasized that democracy dies in the absence of diverse perspectives and that reserved seats ensure women’s voices shape laws on education, healthcare, and security.
