From Allafrica · · 1m 40s
Nigeria Proposes 74 Women's Seats in National Assembly
Nigeria's lawmakers plan 74 new women seats in National Assembly to boost female political participation.
In brief
Nigeria's lawmakers plan 74 new women seats in National Assembly to boost female political participation. Nigeria's National Assembly proposed 74 additional seats for women in Senate and House of Representatives to increase female representation in politics. Originally reported by Allafrica.
Women's Political Representation
Women have historically occupied only a small proportion of seats in Nigeria's National Assembly despite making up nearly half the population.
74 Additional Seats Proposed
The National Assembly's Constitution Review Committee proposed 74 additional seats for women in Senate and House of Representatives.
State-Level Seats
Three additional seats reserved for women in each state House of Assembly without displacing existing electoral seats.
Senate Leader Announcement
Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele disclosed the proposals at the 2026 Law Week organised by FIDA, Ekiti State Chapter.
Bill for Constitutional Change
A Bill for an Act to alter Nigeria's 1999 Constitution to provide special seats for women in National and State Houses of Assembly is under review.
16-Year Implementation
The proposed arrangement runs for 16 years, covering four electoral cycles, before a comprehensive review.
Non-Partisan Initiative
The special seat initiative is not a partisan endeavour but a historic imperative for strengthening Nigeria's democracy.
Women's Protection Focus
The proposal aims to strengthen protections for women and reduce domestic violence through legal and medical support.
Supporters' Arguments
Supporters argue the measure addresses structural barriers to women's political participation including high election costs and gender-based violence.
Critics' Concerns
Critics question whether reserved seats undermine equal representation or create a class of legislators with different mandates.
The bottom line
Nigeria's National Assembly proposed 74 additional seats for women in Senate and House of Representatives to increase female representation in politics.
