Notable women and other stakeholders in Adamawa State have thrown their support behind the 'Reserved Seats for Women Bill,' which aims to increase female representation in legislative bodies across Nigeria.

The proposed constitutional amendment seeks to establish one additional special seat for women per state and the Federal Capital Territory in both the Senate and House of Representatives, creating 74 new seats at the federal level. At the state level, the bill proposes three additional seats for women per state in houses of assembly, establishing 108 new seats nationwide.

This provision is designed to last for 16 years, spanning four election cycles, after which it may be reviewed.

FIDA Leads Advocacy Efforts

The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) organized a stakeholder meeting in Adamawa State to rally support for the bill. The event attracted government officials, civil society organizations, traditional rulers, and community leaders.

Mrs. Eliana Martins, Country Vice President of FIDA Nigeria, explained that the gathering aimed to "build consensus and consolidate memoranda to be submitted to the Constitutional Reform Committee during the upcoming zonal public hearings."

"The Reserved Seats for Women Bill is a transformative piece of legislation designed to enhance gender equity by creating additional exclusive seats for women in the National and State Assemblies," she stated.

Martins acknowledged support from the Federation of Muslim Women's Associations in Nigeria (FOMWAN) and commended the Adamawa State Government for its collaboration, particularly Deputy Governor Professor Kaletapwa George Farauta, the State Chief Judge, and other key female stakeholders.

Government and Legislative Support

Neido Tanyishi Geoffrey Kofulto, Adamawa State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, appreciated FIDA's efforts and reaffirmed the government's commitment to inclusive governance.

"The Fintiri-led administration is making deliberate policy efforts to promote gender equality and support the rights of women and children," the commissioner said.

Kate Mamuno Raymond, Majority Leader in the Adamawa State House of Assembly and the only woman in the 25-member Assembly, emphasized that women must remain united and sustain advocacy efforts to ensure the bill's passage.

The meeting concluded with renewed calls for all stakeholders to support the Reserved Seats for Women Bill to promote greater equity and inclusive governance in Nigeria.