The wife of the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Fatima Abbas, has urged the 10th National Assembly to ensure the passage of the Constitution Alteration Bill seeking to create special reserved seats for women, describing it as a critical reform needed to deepen Nigeria’s democracy and promote inclusive governance.
Mrs Abbas made the appeal on Wednesday during the National Dialogue on the Electoral College Model for the Special Seats Bill, held as part of activities marking the 2026 National Assembly Open Week in Abuja.
She said the proposed constitutional amendment would address the persistent underrepresentation of women in elective positions and strengthen democratic institutions by ensuring broader participation in governance.
According to her, democracy can only thrive when all segments of society have the opportunity to contribute to decision-making.
“The Special Seats Bill seeks to address the persistent underrepresentation of women and other marginalised groups in elective offices, ensuring that our democratic institutions better reflect the diversity of the Nigerian people. A stronger democracy is one in which every voice has a meaningful opportunity to be heard,” she said.
