Kwara women lawmakers: Two years’ scorecard

By Mosunmola Ayobami, Ilorin –

The Kwara State House of Assembly recently marked its second anniversary, revealing that it has considered 25 bills and over 60 motions in the last two years.

The 10th Assembly currently has five female lawmakers among its 24 members. This report assesses their performances between May 2024 and June 2025, focusing on bills sponsored, motions moved, secondments, and contributions to debates.

Leading the pack is Hon. Arinola Fatima Lawal, representing Ilorin East. She serves as Chairperson of the House Committee on Finance and Appropriation, overseeing the review of the state’s annual budget and supplementary bills.

Since the beginning of the 10th Assembly, her committee has ensured timely scrutiny and passage of budgets, including the 2024 Revised Appropriation Bill. Hon. Lawal, daughter of former Governor Rear Admiral Mohammed Lawal, contributed to debates on 20 out of 25 bills in the past year — the highest among the female legislators.

Hon. Rukayat Shittu, representing Owode/Onire Constituency, comes next. The 27-year-old lawmaker chairs the House Committee on Youth, Sports, and Information. She contributed to 18 bill debates, seconded one, and sponsored four bills aimed at fostering development in the state.

Hon. Mariam Aladi, representing Ilorin South and serving as Deputy Chief Whip, has also made her mark. She has sponsored three bills, contributed to 13 debates, and seconded 10 bills during plenary sessions.

The fourth is Hon. Medinat AbdulRaheem, representing Lanwa/Ejidongari and serving as Deputy House Leader. She sponsored two bills, contributed to six bill debates, and moved one motion during the period under review.

Completing the list is Hon. Olatundun Babatunde, representing Ilorin North-West. She has sponsored one bill and made 11 contributions during plenary debates in the House.

It is hoped that with this performance assessment, the female lawmakers will further strengthen their efforts in sponsoring community-oriented bills that can positively impact lives in Kwara State. Their contributions are also expected to encourage more women to participate in politics both within the state and across the country.