Amid growing concerns over the dwindling number of women in elective positions, key political stakeholders, legal experts, and civil rights advocates gathered in the capital for a high-level Strategy Advocacy Meeting.
The forum, titled “Advancing Women’s Leadership: Strengthening Pathways to Inclusive Representation in 2027,” served as a critical platform to demand the passage of the Special Seats Bill and systemic reforms ahead of the next general elections.
The event was organized by the Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre (PLAC) in collaboration with the Nigerian Women Trust Fund (NWTF) and the NBA Section on Public Interest and Development Law (SPIDEL), with support from the European Union.
Addressing the Representation Crisis
Opening the session, Clement Nwankwo, Executive Director of PLAC, raised an alarm over the deeply concerning figures of women currently serving in the National and State Assemblies.
He argued that the ongoing Constitution Review process presents a golden opportunity to rectify this imbalance.
“The passage of the Special Seats Bill is a critical bill before the 10th Assembly,” Nwankwo stated, emphasizing that legislative intervention is no longer optional but a necessity for democratic growth.
This sentiment was echoed by Brenda Anugwom, CEO of the Nigerian Women Trust Fund, who pointed out the irony of Nigerian women excelling in various professional fields while remaining sidelined in political decision-making.
She called for a shift from intention to implementation, urging advocates to align their efforts for tangible results of women representation.
Systemic Barriers vs. Legal Tools
A recurring theme throughout the meeting was the need to stop blaming women for their lack of participation and instead focus on the structural obstacles hindering them. Laolu Olawunmi, Programme Manager for Democracy and Rule of Law at the EU in Nigeria.
She noted that conversations often wrongly focus on women’s choices rather than the systemic barriers that limit those choices.
Representing the legal community, Mazi Afam Osigwe, Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), asserted that women have already proven their leadership capacity within professional bodies like the NBA.
He stressed that women can be trusted with leadership and argued for practical implementation of inclusivity rather than mere lip service. Adding a legal perspective, Dr. Uju Agomoh, Chair of NBA SPIDEL, reaffirmed that the law must function as a tool for progress, promising a strategic framework to drive meaningful representation.
Political Realities and the 2027 Strategy
The meeting moved beyond rhetoric into tactical planning during sessions led by active lawmakers. Hon. Kafilat Ogbara, Chairperson of the House Committee on Women Affairs, clarified that the Special Seats Bill is not merely about adding seats, but about building a democracy that truly reflects all members of society.
She further demanded urgent political party reforms to lower barriers for female aspirants before the 2027 cycle begins.
Hon. Gaza Jonathan Gbwefi led a technical discussion on political risk and vote mapping, identifying support and resistance blocs within the National Assembly. His session focused on how to sustain momentum for the bill by engaging key influencers and undecided lawmakers.
A Unified Call for Action
The advocacy received a significant boost from state-level leaders. Mrs. Edesili Anani Okpebholo, First Lady of Edo State, criticized the status quo where women are treated primarily as voters and supporters rather than decision-makers.
Similarly, Hon. Caroline Panglang Dafur, Plateau State Commissioner for Women Affairs, speaking for the College of Commissioners, urged the National Assembly to expedite the passage of the bill to ensure an inclusive 2027.
The event concluded with a panel titled “Positioning Women for Electoral Success in 2027.” 
Featuring diverse voices from the APC, Inter-Party Advisory Council, and the judiciary, all agreeing that while the road to 2027 is steep, a unified legislative and social front is the only way to ensure women take their rightful place in Nigeria’s governance.
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