The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, has reaffirmed the commitment of the 10th National Assembly to constitutional amendments aimed at tackling the low number of women in governance across Nigeria.
Tajudeen delivered the remarks in Abuja at the Nigeria Women Peace, Democracy Summit and Awards 2026, according to Voice of Nigeria. He was represented at the gathering by Kafilat Ogbara, who chairs the House Committee on Women Affairs.
The Speaker highlighted the proposed Reserved Seats for Women Bill as a key legislative effort to carve out extra spaces for women in both state assemblies and the federal legislature. He clarified that the proposed adjustment would not abolish current constituencies or strip sitting representatives of their seats.
Tajudeen described the lack of female representation in parliament as a democratic imbalance that must be addressed urgently. He noted that consultations are actively underway with political stakeholders and the executive arm, adding that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has also thrown his support behind the plan.
Beyond merely increasing headcounts, Tajudeen pointed out that true inclusion must involve women directing policies, contributing to national laws, and engaging deeply in legislative oversight.
Turning to issues of safety, the Speaker urged stricter legal mechanisms against gender-based violence, better justice systems, and adequate care for victims. He referred back to November 25, 2024, when he led lawmakers in an Abuja walk to observe the global 16 Days of Activism initiative.
Tajudeen also underscored the place of women in resolving communal unrest and aiding displaced populations, criticising their frequent absence from official peace talks. He challenged the National Council of Women Societies, who put together the event, to maintain strong ties with parliament to turn these goals into reality.
