Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, emphasized that the proposed legislation to reserve seats for women in both the National and State Houses of Assembly is far from symbolic. Instead, it represents a genuine effort to enhance female political participation, fostering a governance system that is more inclusive and just.
Speaking at a dedicated dialogue series organized by the Emerge Women Development Initiative, known as ‘SheThePeople,’ Kalu-who also leads the House Committee on Constitution Review-highlighted the bill’s significance in promoting women’s inclusion in political decision-making.
Although he was represented by his Chief of Staff, Sam Hart, the Deputy Speaker conveyed that the bill stands as a testament to a shared resolve to integrate women more fully into governance structures.
The event, themed “Deepening the Conversation, Accelerating Women’s Representation in Governance,” served as a platform to reflect on the strides made so far and to renew the commitment to ensuring women’s perspectives are not only acknowledged but amplified within political arenas.
To drive this progress forward, Kalu urged open, honest dialogue and increased advocacy aimed at dismantling the systemic obstacles that continue to limit women’s full engagement in politics.
He praised the trailblazing women who have shattered glass ceilings and positively influenced society, reaffirming the legislature’s dedication to advancing policies that recognize women as equal partners in governance rather than mere tokens.
In his address, Kalu stated, “I extend warm greetings from the People’s House-the House of Representatives-and the Constitution Review Committee. This gathering is more than a momentary event; it is part of a broader movement toward justice, equality, and empowerment. The theme invites us to contemplate the courageous and determined path we have taken to ensure women’s voices resonate powerfully within corridors of power. The Reserved Seats Bill, HB 1349, which I sponsored alongside several colleagues, is a legislative initiative designed to secure dedicated representation for women in our political institutions.
“As Chair of the Constitution Review Committee, I find it imperative to scrutinize our Constitution’s provisions to guarantee they uphold gender equality and empower women. This bill aims to establish reserved seats for women in the National and State Houses of Assembly, thereby promoting inclusive governance, boosting women’s political presence, and addressing gender imbalances in our political framework. This is not mere legislation or tokenism; it symbolizes our collective determination to rewrite the narrative and challenge the longstanding exclusion of women from decision-making forums.
“We must critically assess electoral laws, party dynamics, and cultural norms that obstruct women’s political representation. Our goal is to cultivate a political environment that is both inclusive and equitable, encouraging women to engage and excel. As we delve into these discussions today, let us remember that advocating for women’s representation transcends gender parity-it is about building a society that values inclusivity and fairness. It calls on us to unlock the potential of half our population, who bring insight, empathy, and visionary leadership. I thank you for your commitment, passion, and unwavering belief in women’s transformative power. Together, let us deepen this dialogue, hasten representation, and forge a legacy of equality and empowerment for future generations.”
At the outset, Dr. Mary Ikoku, Founding Director of the Emerge Women Development Initiative and Convener of the SheThePeople Dialogue, remarked that the forum is designed to stimulate high-level discussions on women’s political empowerment and participation in Nigeria.
Ikoku praised Deputy Speaker Kalu for championing the bill, emphasizing that the Reserved Seats Bill is not only a matter of gender justice but also a vital step toward fulfilling Nigeria’s broader development ambitions, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the African Union’s Agenda 2063.
“Let us be unequivocal: the era of mere discussion has passed. This dialogue must catalyze tangible action through advocacy, stakeholder collaboration, and political mobilization. We must support the Deputy Speaker and all reform-driven legislators. This moment demands a unified vision because meaningful change occurs only when we collectively demand it-and persist in that demand,” she concluded.
