The Nigerian Senate has promised to introduce new laws to remove barriers limiting women’s progress in the country. Lawmakers also committed to ensuring 35% affirmative action for women in the National Assembly and governance, in line with the National Gender Policy and the United Nations Convention on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio made this pledge during a three days event at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja to mark the 2025 International Women’s Day. The event, themed “Economic and Political Inclusion: Walk the Talk,” aimed to promote gender equality and women’s participation in leadership.
Akpabio assured women that the Senate would support gender equality by removing legal and social obstacles to their progress. He emphasized that women are excellent managers and should play key roles in all sectors of society. He also condemned unfounded cases of sexual harassment and reaffirmed the 10th National Assembly’s commitment to passing laws that will secure 35% representation for women in governance.
Minister of Women Affairs, Hajia Imaan Sulaiman Ibrahim, highlighted President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to women’s empowerment, revealing that he increased the ministry’s budget by 1,000%. She encouraged women to keep pushing for policies that enhance their progress and equality.
Director of Media & Public Affairs, Tabitha Sallah, praised the National Assembly for its efforts to support women through legislation. She called for urgent action on pending gender related bills, stressing that while progress has been made, more needs to be done to ensure equal opportunities for all women.
The event, attended by top government officials, reaffirmed the Senate’s resolve to promote gender inclusion and strengthen women’s roles in politics and the economy.