Yobe Women Rally for 74 Reserved Seats in National Assembly

From Abubakar Rabilu Gombe

Over one million women in Yobe State have thrown their weight behind a groundbreaking bill seeking to reserve 74 seats for women in the National Assembly.

The bill, co-sponsored by Hon. Fatima Talba and Hon. Khadija Bukar Abba, has successfully passed its second reading and now awaits presidential assent.

If enacted, it promises to bridge the gender gap in legislative representation and foster inclusive governance in Nigeria.

Describing the initiative as “revolutionary,” Hon. Fatima Muhammad Paga, UN Women Focal Person to Governor Mai Mala Buni, praised its potential to elevate women’s voices in decision-making. “Women bring unique insights to leadership,” she said, “and their inclusion is pivotal for shaping the nation’s future.”

Backed by UN Women, the campaign has ignited nationwide support, with rallies staged in all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

Advocates argue that increasing women’s representation will lead to balanced policymaking and more effective governance.

Supporters have called on President Bola Tinubu to promptly assent to the bill, hailing it as a landmark step for democracy and gender equity in Nigeria.

This movement marks a bold push for a more inclusive political landscape, with hopes that it will inspire greater participation and representation of women across all tiers of government.