Senator Oluremi Tinubu calls for urgent passage of the Gender Parity Bill, promoting women’s inclusion, democracy, and national development in Nigeria.
Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, hosted members of the National Assembly on Friday evening for a high-profile dinner at the State House Banquet Hall, passionately advocating for the urgent passage of the Gender Parity Bill.
Also known as the Reserved Seats for Women Bill, this legislation aims to guarantee constitutionally mandated representation for women in both federal and state legislatures, ensuring greater equality, inclusion, and democratic progress across Nigeria.
The event drew key figures, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma representing the Nigerian Governors’ Forum, senior legislators from both chambers, and top government officials.
The First Lady described the gathering as “a moment for dialogue and reflection” on the nation’s democratic future and the critical role women play in shaping governance.
In her address, Senator Tinubu emphasised that the Gender Parity Bill presents a historic opportunity to strengthen Nigeria’s democracy and accelerate national development.
She noted that support for the bill has grown in recent months, with advocacy from civic groups, national stakeholders, and international organizations highlighting its importance.
“Interest in the Gender Parity Bill has gathered momentum from across the country and even internationally,” she said.
“If we act now, this assembly will be remembered as the one that stood firmly for women at the moment it counted most.”
She stressed that gender-inclusive governance is not merely symbolic but essential for sustainable national growth.
Affirmative measures in other countries have demonstrated that women’s active participation improves governance quality, policy effectiveness, and long-term national stability.
The First Lady highlighted the challenges faced by children, particularly girls and boys in the Almajiri system, urging lawmakers to see the Gender Parity Bill as part of broader reforms aimed at creating a more inclusive society.
“In recent weeks, the nation has faced multiple challenges affecting education and the dignity of children,” she said.
“Girls face disproportionate risks, while boys in the Almajiri system are deprived of basic necessities, leaving them vulnerable to negative influences.
“Inclusive reforms and the Gender Parity Bill are essential to restore dignity and ensure safe learning environments for all.”
Senator Tinubu emphasized that equality in representation ensures that every Nigerian has the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the country’s development.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio praised the First Lady for her leadership and commitment to advancing women’s participation in governance, describing the initiative as “unprecedented.”
He reaffirmed the National Assembly’s support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration in stabilizing the nation and implementing inclusive governance reforms.
“We are committed to supporting the President in addressing insecurity while ensuring that all Nigerians are protected regardless of religion,” Akpabio said.
He further noted that the Senate has resolved to classify kidnapping as a terrorist offence punishable by death, underlining the chamber’s commitment to national security reforms.
On the Gender Parity Bill, the Senate President pledged continued support, urging consistent engagement with women’s initiatives rather than selective involvement.
Speaker Tajudeen Abbas commended the First Lady’s consistent advocacy, noting her efforts have brought national visibility to women’s participation in peace and security initiatives.
He highlighted that the House of Representatives recently dedicated an entire week to national security discussions—a first in Nigeria’s legislative history—demonstrating the lawmakers’ commitment to President Tinubu’s reforms.
Addressing the Reserved Seats for Women Bill, Abbas stated, “Women constitute nearly half of our population but remain severely underrepresented in parliament. This undermines both democracy and national security.”
He explained that the bill would guarantee at least one female representative from each state in the House, along with special seats in the Senate and state assemblies.
He added that international experience shows countries with greater female participation in governance adopt more effective security strategies, strengthen community engagement, and promote long-term peace.
“Passing the Gender Parity Bill is a strategic step toward inclusion, justice, and national stability,” Abbas noted.
Adding momentum to the First Lady’s advocacy, APC National Chairman Professor Nentawe Yilwatda expressed his full support for the Gender Parity Bill, reinforcing the party’s alignment with the initiative and increasing prospects for its swift passage in the legislature.
The dinner provided a platform for reflection, dialogue, and consensus-building around the Gender Parity Bill, highlighting its potential to redefine political inclusion and strengthen Nigeria’s democracy.
Senator Tinubu concluded by appealing to lawmakers to seize this historic opportunity, emphasizing that the Gender Parity Bill is not a partisan agenda but a national necessity that will advance democracy, strengthen governance, and safeguard the nation’s future.
“Passing the Gender Parity Bill is an investment in Nigeria’s collective future,” she said.
“It is an opportunity for our nation to lead by example, ensuring that women and men alike contribute to shaping a more inclusive, secure, and prosperous Nigeria.”
With the backing of the First Lady, the National Assembly leadership, and the APC, the Gender Parity Bill is positioned at a critical juncture—ready to transform political representation and mark a historic step toward equality and national development.
About the Author
