Senator Oluremi Tinubu, First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, has urged lawmakers to enshrine seat reservations for women in Nigeria’s Parliament, describing it as a democratic imperative and a tool for inclusive national development. Her call came during the opening of the “Special Seats for Women in Parliament” session at the 2025 National Assembly Open Week on Wednesday, July 10, in Abuja.
Speaking through Hon. Kafilat Adetola Ogbara, Chairperson of the House Committee on Women Affairs, the First Lady stressed that despite making up nearly 50% of Nigeria’s population, women remain glaringly underrepresented in all levels of governance. She urged legislators to use the ongoing constitution review as a historic opportunity to legislate gender balance in the National Assembly.
Addressing participants, including lawmakers and civil society groups, she stated that reserving legislative seats for women is not an act of charity but a matter of equity and national progress. “We must recognize the unique experiences and leadership capabilities women bring. Representation must mirror the diversity and strength of Nigeria’s population,” she said.
Highlighting that only 4.5% of seats in Nigeria’s National Assembly are currently occupied by women, Tinubu pointed to global benchmarks, noting that African countries like Rwanda and Senegal have made significant progress through seat reservation models, with Rwanda boasting over 60% female parliamentary representation.
The session formed part of the broader NASS Open Week—an initiative by the 10th House of Representatives to foster transparency, accountability, and public engagement in legislative processes. The event also reflects growing momentum around constitutional reform, with gender inclusion emerging as a central demand from advocacy groups.
Senator Tinubu praised women-led organizations, civil society, and male allies pushing the agenda, pledging continued support for policies that empower women politically and economically. “Let us move beyond promises. Let us make history,” she concluded.
Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, who personally invited the First Lady to launch the session, reaffirmed the House’s commitment to democratic inclusion, noting that any constitutional amendment that strengthens representation is a step toward justice and national unity.
