As the National Assembly resumed from recess on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, major women’s groups have intensified pressure on lawmakers to urgently pass the Special Seats for Women Bill ahead of the 2027 general elections.
National Council of Women Societies (NCWS), League of Women Voters of Nigeria (NILOWV), National Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Federation of Muslim Women’s Association of Nigeria (FOMWAN), and International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) delivered formal letters and petitions to legislators across all 36 states.
The bill seeks to create reserved special seats for women in the National Assembly and state houses of assembly to address the low representation of women in governance and promote a more inclusive political system.
Irene Awuna-Ikyegh, President of NILOWV, said the letters aim to strengthen grassroots support among constituency leaders, policy influencers, and members of the 10th Assembly.
“These letters are to further strengthen the support for the special seats. This is the momentum that says Nigerian women have spoken in a unified voice for passage of the bill,” she stated.
Gender advocate Adaora Onyechere Sydney-Jack added that the coordinated push shows “the time has come to strengthen Nigeria’s democracy through inclusive representation and ensure that women have a stronger voice in shaping the nation’s future.”
Advocates argue that the bill is a national development priority, not just a gender issue. Nigeria has one of the lowest levels of female participation in elective offices in Africa, and special seats are expected to correct historical imbalances and boost women’s involvement in decision-making.
The groups are calling for the bill to be prioritised so women can benefit from the reserved seats in the 2027 elections.
The Special Seats for Women Bill is already before the National Assembly, but women leaders want it fast-tracked to avoid delays.
No official timeline has been given for when it will be debated or voted on.
The fresh campaign reflects a strong consensus among women’s organisations that greater female representation is essential for deepening democracy and sustainable national development in Nigeria.
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