The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Kaduna State Chapter, has thrown its full weight behind the urgent passage of the Special Seats Bill (HB1349), aligning with nationwide advocacy aimed at increasing women’s representation in Nigeria’s political leadership.
In a press statement issued on February 16, 2026, the association declared its solidarity with Nigerian women who gathered at the National Assembly to demand structural reforms that would guarantee more inclusive political participation.
NAWOJ described the proposed Special Seats Bill as a strategic and necessary intervention designed to address decades of systemic exclusion of women from governance and decision-making spaces.
According to the association, Nigeria’s democratic advancement remains incomplete as long as women—who make up nearly half of the population—continue to be underrepresented in elective and appointed positions.
The association emphasized that women have consistently demonstrated competence and resilience across various sectors, yet political structures have failed to adequately reflect this reality.
It noted that the bill offers a practical framework to bridge the representation gap and promote more inclusive governance.
NAWOJ Kaduna State specifically called on members of the National Assembly representing Kaduna State to vote in favour of the bill, urging them to act in the interest of equity and democratic progress.
The group also appealed to the Kaduna State House of Assembly to publicly endorse initiatives aimed at expanding women’s political participation.
Furthermore, the association urged political parties, civil society organisations, professional bodies, and community leaders to provide visible and vocal support for the proposed reform.
The statement highlighted that inclusive governance strengthens accountability, enhances policy responsiveness, and accelerates development outcomes. It stressed that empowering women in leadership is not a privilege but a democratic imperative.
Reaffirming its commitment, NAWOJ Kaduna State pledged sustained media advocacy, public engagement, and stakeholder mobilisation until meaningful legislative progress is achieved.
The association vowed to continue educating and mobilising citizens on the significance of the proposed reform.
Describing the moment as pivotal for Nigeria’s democracy, NAWOJ stated that the era of incremental gestures must give way to concrete structural inclusion.
REL: Khadija Kubau
