By Gloria Ikibah

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, has reaffirmed the commitment of the 10th National Assembly to enact strong legislative measures that will safeguard and empower women in politics.

Speaking at the Nigerian Women Leadership and Empowerment Conference 2025 in Abuja, with the theme: “Investing in Nigerian Women, Securing Our Future,” organised by the House Committee on Women Affairs and Social Development,

Speaker Abbas emphasised the need for gender-inclusive governance and policies that promote equal representation in political and economic spheres.

The conference provided a platform to discuss challenges and solutions regarding women’s participation in leadership.

Despite constitutional guarantees of gender equality, Abbas noted that Nigerian women still face discrimination, underrepresentation, and socio-economic barriers that hinder their leadership opportunities.

“We will enact robust legislation to protect women in politics from violence and intimidation, ensuring that our political system aligns with constitutional principles of fairness and freedom,” he stated.

He revealed that the House of Representatives has introduced a Legislative Agenda prioritizing women’s political participation and economic empowerment.

“As part of this effort, two committees dedicated to women’s issues have been established, and all female lawmakers in the House are part of the Constitution Amendment Committee to ensure gender-sensitive policymaking”, he added.

The Speaker also urged the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to integrate women into its National Executive Committee (NEC), a move that has already resulted in the appointment of four women to NEC positions.

Abbas further stressed the need for special legislative seats for women and mandatory gender quotas in political parties to increase female representation in governance.

“I urge all State Houses of Assembly to support these reforms in the Constitution Amendment process to guarantee greater political participation for women,” he added.

Beyond politics, the Speaker highlighted that women’s economic empowerment is vital for Nigeria’s development, referencing successful global models, such as Rwanda’s gender quotas and Bangladesh’s microfinance initiatives, as strategies Nigeria can adapt to uplift women.

He reiterated the commitment of the House to enforcing the National Gender Policy, supporting electoral reforms that promote female candidates, and amending the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act (VAPP) to strengthen women’s rights.

Abbas commended Chairman of the Committee, Rep. Kafilat Ogbara and Minister of Women Affairs, Hon. Imaan Sulaiman Ibrahim, for their roles in advancing gender equality.

Representative of the First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu at the event, Hajiya Fatima Abbas applauded Nigerian women for breaking barriers across various sectors. However, she emphasized the need for greater inclusion and empowerment, urging action to dismantle structural barriers that keep women in poverty.

In her opening remarks, Rep. Kafilat Ogbara, described the conference as more than just an event but a movement aimed at breaking barriers and creating opportunities for future generations of women.

She noted that the conference serves as a platform to celebrate Nigerian women’s strength, resilience, and potential while fostering an environment where they can thrive, lead, and inspire.

A key highlight of the event was the launch of the National Compendium of Women in Leadership Positions, a publication documenting the achievements of trailblazing Nigerian women across various sectors.

Rep. Ogbara emphasized that while the National Compendium of Women in Leadership Positions is in its maiden edition, it serves as an essential resource to inspire young girls and women striving for leadership roles.

She announced that the conference would honor outstanding Nigerians who have shown unwavering dedication to empowering women and promoting gender equality. Their contributions, she said, stand as a beacon of hope and proof that meaningful change is achievable through collective effort.

Among the award recipients were First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, Speaker of the House of Representatives Abbas Tajudeen, and Minister of the FCT Nyesom Wike.

Beyond discussions, Ogbara revealed that the House Committee on Women Affairs and Social Development is implementing direct support programs for women in need, particularly widows and low-income earners, through cash empowerment initiatives.

She expressed gratitude to the leadership of the House of Representatives for their commitment to gender equality, acknowledging Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu for sponsoring a bill aimed at reserving special seats for women in parliament to ensure greater representation in legislative bodies.

Ogbara also commended First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu for her leadership in advancing women’s welfare through the Renewed Hope Initiative, describing it as a transformative program that has positively impacted countless Nigerian women.

The conference gathered policymakers, civil society groups, and development partners to strategize on enhancing women’s leadership and increasing their participation in national development.