The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, has stressed that affirmative action for women is not a privilege but a critical corrective measure to ensure gender balance and fairness in Nigerian governance.
Speaking at a session with State Houses of Assembly Speakers marking the conclusion of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), Speaker Abbas emphasized the importance of integrating women’s and gender issues into Nigeria’s constitution, policies, and budgetary processes.
During the event at the National Assembly, Speaker Abbas highlighted the parliament’s long-standing role in advocating for legislative reforms aimed at protecting women, including the enactment of the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act and the Child’s Rights Act.
He reiterated the 10th House’s commitment to promoting women’s political participation and representation through its Legislative Agenda, which focuses on constitutional reforms to increase women’s roles in governance.
Speaker Abbas called for an end to systemic barriers that hinder women’s participation in political life, citing cultural norms, economic inequality, and inadequate legal protections. He pointed out that affirmative action for women should be viewed as a corrective measure, not undemocratic, citing successful examples from countries like Rwanda and South Africa.
The Speaker further noted that the support of State Houses of Assembly and State Speakers is crucial to advancing gender-focused constitutional reforms at both the national and sub-national levels. He concluded by reiterating that a society that protects and empowers its women ensured a stronger future for all.
