The Women’s Political Participation Technical Working Group (TWG) has commended the House of Representatives for ongoing progress in the constitutional amendment process, expressing optimism that the Special Seats for Women Bill is now closer to passage than ever before.
According to an official signed statement by the National Chair of the Women’s Political Participation Technical Working Group, Ebere Ifendu, on behalf of the TWG Secretariat and coalition, the proposed legislation seeking to reserve legislative seats for women was not considered during plenary on June 11, 2026, due to the volume of bills listed for consideration and delays arising from issues on the floor of the House.
The group, however, noted that the constitutional amendment process recorded significant progress with the passage of the State Police Bill, describing it as an indication of the House’s commitment to advancing key reforms.
The TWG disclosed that the Special Seats Bill remains on the order paper and is expected to be considered when the National Assembly resumes from recess on July 7, 2026.
It also highlighted a major development in the proposed legislation with the inclusion of two reserved Senate seats for women from each of the six geopolitical zones, bringing the total number of dedicated Senate seats under the proposal to twelve.
The group praised members of the House of Representatives for their continued engagement with constitutional reforms and urged lawmakers to support Bill 20, the Special Seats for Women Bill, when it is brought up for voting.
The TWG reaffirmed its commitment to sustained advocacy and engagement with legislators, stakeholders and the media to build support for the legislation, which it said would enhance women’s representation and participation in governance.
Calling on advocates and development partners to remain committed to the campaign, the group expressed confidence that the bill has gained significant momentum and remains on course for eventual passage.
The proposed Special Seats Bill is widely regarded by advocates as a key measure aimed at addressing the underrepresentation of women in Nigeria’s legislative institutions and strengthening inclusive democratic participation.
