- The bill as timely and reflective of Nigeria’s readiness to embrace gender inclusivity
- Women currently occupy just 3.7 percent of seats
- Legislators to seize the opportunity to make history by passing the bill
Isaac Adegboye
A member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Working Committee, Tolu Bankole, has thrown his weight behind the Reserved Seats for Women Bill, urging lawmakers at both state and federal levels to ensure its swift passage.
Eko Hot Blog reports that Bankole, who represents Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) on the APC’s National Working Committee, gave his endorsement in a statement released in Abuja on Sunday, describing the bill as timely and reflective of Nigeria’s readiness to embrace gender inclusivity in governance.
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The proposed law seeks to create 37 extra seats in the Senate, 37 in the House of Representatives, and three reserved seats for women in each of the 36 state assemblies. It is currently scheduled for a third reading in October before being transmitted to state assemblies and eventually to the President for assent.
Nigeria’s legislature has long struggled with gender imbalance, as women currently occupy just 3.7 percent of seats in the Senate and 3.9 percent in the House of Representatives.
In his remarks, Bankole praised Nigerian women as “the engine room of development,” noting their competence, reliability, and leadership qualities. He stressed that increased female participation in politics would enrich governance, strengthen democracy, and promote innovation.
He further appealed for affirmative action to be extended to Persons with Disabilities, insisting that inclusivity should not end with women. “Affirmative action for PWDs is not just an act of compassion but a national imperative to harness the skills and insights of millions of Nigerians who face systemic barriers,” he said.
Bankole highlighted that women and PWDs alike bring unique perspectives that challenge stereotypes and inspire future generations. He urged legislators to seize the opportunity to make history by passing the bill and ensuring equal representation for all.
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