Senate President Godswill Akpabio has thrown his weight behind the push for greater female representation in Nigerian politics, declaring, “Where women rise, nations thrive.”
In a powerful statement shared on his official X handle (@SenGodswill ) on Monday, Akpabio underscored the transformative potential of women’s leadership, aligning his advocacy with the ongoing campaign for the Reserved Seats for Women Bill in the National Assembly.
The Reserved Seats for Women Bill, a key component of Nigeria’s constitutional reform efforts, proposes the creation of 37 additional seats in the Senate, one for each state and the Federal Capital Territory—and 37 in the House of Representatives, exclusively for women.
This legislative push aims to boost female participation in decision-making.
Akpabio’s endorsement adds momentum to the bill, which has already garnered support from prominent figures, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, and Prof. Martina Yilwatda, the APC Chairman’s wife and Patron of the Women’s Leadership Network.
Speaking to the bill’s potential, Akpabio emphasized that empowering women is not just a matter of equity but a catalyst for national progress. “When women are given the opportunity to lead, they bring unique perspectives that drive innovation, peace, and development,” he stated, citing global examples where gender-inclusive governance has led to stronger economies and social stability.
His comments resonate with recent public hearings and advocacy campaigns, including those led by women’s groups like the Women’s Leadership Network, which have rallied across Nigeria to demand the bill’s passage before the 2027 elections.
The Senate President’s advocacy follows a groundswell of support from women leaders and grassroots organizations. In Jos, Prof. Yilwatda recently linked the bill’s success to President Tinubu’s reelection bid, urging women to back the APC as a party committed to gender-friendly policies. Similarly, groups like the Association of Women Traditional Title Holders in Nigeria have praised Tinubu and Ganduje for their “gender-friendly leadership,” framing the bill as a critical step toward inclusive governance.
Despite the growing momentum, the bill faces challenges, including debates over its implementation and potential resistance from some lawmakers.
Akpabio, remains optimistic, noting that the bill’s passage would mark a “turning point” for Nigeria’s democracy, fostering policies that prioritize education, healthcare, and economic opportunities for all.
With the National Assembly set to deliberate further on the bill, Akpabio’s words signal a commitment to prioritizing gender equity as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s development agenda.
