Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Enugu State Chapter, NAWOJ, has expressed strong support for the Special Seats Bill (HB1349), currently under consideration in the National Assembly of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
In a statement co- signed by the Chairperson of the Association,Comrade Ngozi Ngene and the Secretary,Comrade Nneoma Igwe, NAWOJ and made available to Newsmen on Monday in Enugu, NAWOJ said, “As an organization committed to promoting gender equity, social justice, and inclusive governance, NAWOJ Enugu views the Special Seats Bill as a landmark legislative initiative aimed at addressing the long-standing underrepresentation of women in Nigeria’s political and decision-making structures.
“For decades, Nigerian women have demonstrated competence, leadership, and capacity across all sectors—media, business, academia, civil society, and public service—yet their representation in elective positions remains disproportionately low. The Special Seats Bill (HB1349) seeks to correct this imbalance by creating additional legislative seats exclusively for women at the federal and state levels, thereby strengthening democratic participation and ensuring broader inclusion in governance.
“NAWOJ Enugu firmly believes that:
Inclusive governance enhances policy outcomes and national development.
Women’s representation is not a privilege, but a democratic necessity”, they said..
NAWOJ added that ,”Temporary special measures, such as reserved seats, are globally recognized strategies for accelerating gender parity in political participation.
The passage of HB1349 will align Nigeria with international best practices and commitments to gender equality, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 5 on Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment.
We commend the sponsors and supporters of the bill for their courage and foresight, and we call on members of the National Assembly, political stakeholders, civil society organizations, traditional institutions, and the general public to lend their support to this transformative legislation.
NAWOJ Enugu also urges the media to play its critical role in sensitizing the public on the importance of women’s political inclusion and in countering misinformation surrounding the bill”.
The Association calls on Enugu State and Federal lawmakers, traditional rulers, market unions, president of towns Unions and other relevant stakeholders to support this bill when it comes to National Assembly.
As journalists and advocates, we remain steadfast in amplifying the voices of women and championing policies that foster equity, justice, and national progress.
The time for inclusive governance is now. The Special Seats Bill (HB1349) is a necessary step toward a more representative and equitable Nigeria.
