Akpabio backs women’s reserved seats, urges stronger political inclusion
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has thrown his support behind the proposed Reserved Seats for Women Bill, stressing the need for greater female representation in governance to drive national development.
Speaking during an advocacy visit by women activists led by Osasu Igbinedion, Akpabio described the underrepresentation of women in politics as a missed opportunity for Nigeria. He called women “better managers” and effective decision-makers, adding that their exclusion limits the country’s progress.
“We all came from women. Personally, I am blessed with four daughters. The success of this bill will open doors for our female children to participate more actively in politics,” Akpabio said.
He also urged advocates to mobilize wider support to ensure the bill passes, noting that societal attitudes — including women not voting for female candidates — remain a major hurdle.
Osasu Igbinedion, speaking on behalf of the coalition, highlighted the bill as a corrective measure for decades of systemic exclusion.
“This is not about reducing opportunities for men, but expanding possibilities for Nigeria. We are not asking for charity; we are demanding justice,” she said.
She noted that women hold less than 5% of seats in the National Assembly, placing Nigeria among the lowest in Africa for female political representation. Igbinedion stressed that inclusive governance leads to stronger communities and more effective policymaking.
The visit ended with Akpabio and other senators receiving badges in support of the bill, symbolizing a growing momentum behind the push for gender-balanced representation in Nigeria’s political landscape.
