Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, has stated that the bill seeking to create reserved seats for women in the National and State Houses of Assembly is not an act of tokenism, but a genuine pursuit to increase women’s political representation, foster inclusive governance and promote a more equitable society.
Kalu, who also chairs the House Committee on Constitution Review, made this known while delivering his remarks at a special dialogue series on the Reserved Seats Bill, hosted by Emerge Women Development Initiative, and tagged, “SheThePeople.”
In a statement issued to journalists in Abuja by his special assistant on press affairs, Udora Orizu and delivered on his behalf by his Chief of Staff, Sam Hart, the deputy speaker described the bill as proof of a collective commitment to promoting women’s inclusion in governance.
He said the event themed; “Deepening the Conversation, Accelerating Women’s Representation in Governance,” was a time for reflection on the journey so far and a renewed determination to ensure that women’s voices are not only heard but amplified in the halls of power.
To accelerate progress, he called for candid conversations and greater advocacy to dismantle the systemic barriers hindering women’s full participation in politics.
He commended women who have broken societal and political barriers and reaffirmed the commitment of the National Assembly to continue pushing for policies that recognise women not as tokens, but as equal partners in governance.
“I bring you warm compliments from the People’s House — the House of Representatives — and the Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution. This event is not just a moment in time, but a movement toward justice, equality, and empowerment,” Kalu said.
“The Reserved Seats Bill, HB 1349, sponsored by myself and co-sponsored by other members of the House, is a legislative effort aimed at carving out dedicated space for women in our governance structures.
“As Chairman of the Constitution Review Committee, I believe it is essential to examine the provisions of our Constitution to ensure they promote gender equality and women’s empowerment.
“This bill is not just another piece of legislation — neither is it an act of tokenism. It is a testament to our collective commitment to change the narrative and disrupt the status quo that has long excluded women from decision-making tables.”
Kalu emphasised the need to address gaps within electoral laws, political party structures, and societal norms that hinder women’s representation in politics.
He called for a more inclusive political environment that encourages women to participate and thrive.
“Let us remember that the struggle for women’s representation is not merely about gender balance — it is about building a more inclusive and equitable society. We must harness the untapped potential of half of our population, who have the insight, compassion, and vision to lead with empathy,” he said.
“Thank you for your dedication, passion, and unflinching belief in the power of women to transform our world. Together, let us deepen the conversation, accelerate representation, and create a legacy of equality and empowerment for generations to come.”
Earlier, in her opening remarks, the Founding Director of Emerge Women Development Initiative and Convener of the SheThePeople Dialogue, Dr. Mary Ikoku, said the dialogue aims to foster high-level conversations around women’s political participation and empowerment in Nigeria.
She commended Deputy Speaker Kalu for sponsoring the Reserved Seats Bill, describing it as not just a gender equality issue but a crucial step towards achieving national development goals, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the African Union’s Agenda 2063.
“Let us be clear: the time for talking is over,” Ikoku declared. “This dialogue must translate into action — through advocacy, stakeholder engagement, and political pressure. We must back the Deputy Speaker and all reform-minded lawmakers. Real change only happens when we demand it — and sustain that demand.”
