Women’s Group Applauds Progress on Constitutional Amendments, Pushes for Special Seats Bill

A coalition of women’s rights and political participation advocates has commended the House of Representatives for advancing the constitutional amendment process, while expressing optimism over the prospects of the Special Seats for Women Bill.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the Women’s Political Participation Technical Working Group (TWG) said the bill, which seeks to reserve legislative seats for women, was not considered during the latest plenary session due to time constraints and delays arising from debates on other constitutional amendment proposals.

The group noted that although the Special Seats Bill was not called for a vote, it remains on the House’s order paper and is expected to be considered when lawmakers resume from recess on July 7, 2026.

According to the coalition, one of the major developments surrounding the proposed legislation is the inclusion of two Senate seats for each of Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, creating a total of 12 reserved Senate seats aimed at increasing women’s representation in governance.

The group welcomed the successful passage of the State Police Bill during the same plenary session, describing it as a sign of steady progress in the ongoing constitutional review process.

National Chair of the Women’s Political Participation Technical Working Group, Ebere Ifendu, praised lawmakers for their commitment to constitutional reforms and urged members of the National Assembly to support the Special Seats for Women Bill when it comes up for consideration.

She emphasized that the proposed legislation represents a significant opportunity to address the longstanding underrepresentation of women in Nigeria’s legislative institutions.

The coalition pledged to continue engaging legislators, civil society groups, and the media to build support for the bill ahead of its anticipated debate and vote.

Advocates expressed confidence that the legislation is closer to passage than at any previous point, calling on supporters and stakeholders to remain committed to the campaign for greater political inclusion of women.

The proposed Special Seats Bill is among several constitutional amendment measures currently before the National Assembly as lawmakers consider reforms aimed at strengthening governance and representation across the country.