Yobe Backs Bill for Women’s Reserved Seats in Parliament

By Abubakar Rabilu, Gombe

Yobe State has joined 35 other states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in endorsing the Reserved Seats Bill, a proposed constitutional amendment aimed at increasing women’s representation in Nigeria’s legislative bodies.

The endorsement was made during the Northeast Joint Zonal Public Hearing on the review of the 1999 Constitution, organised by the National Assembly to collect regional input on key reforms.

Speaking at the hearing, Fatima Muhammad Paga, gender advocate and UN Women Focal Person to Governor Mai Mala Buni, stressed the importance of legal backing to promote women’s political inclusion.

“This bill seeks to correct the historic under-representation of women. By guaranteeing reserved seats, we are not just empowering women; we are strengthening democracy,” she said.

The bill, championed by UN Women Nigeria, seeks constitutional amendments to reserve seats for women in both federal and state legislatures.

It aligns with Nigeria’s international commitments under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the African Union’s Agenda 2063.

Paga applauded the wide support for the bill from civil society groups, political leaders, and development partners, calling it a “timely intervention” that reflects the aspirations of Nigerian women.

The hearing attracted stakeholders from across the Northeast, including state officials, traditional rulers, youth leaders, and women’s groups.

Supporters remain hopeful that the National Assembly will pass the amendment, advancing gender equity and inclusive governance in Nigeria.