…“As the People’s House, the House of Reps affirms that promoting the rights and welfare of women and girls is a shared responsibility
ABUJA, NIGERIA- The iNews Times | The House of Representatives (Reps) has reiterated its dedication to strengthening legislative and institutional frameworks that promote the rights, inclusion, and well-being of women and girls in Nigeria.
In a statement on Sunday marking the 2026 International Women’s Day, the House of Reps spokesman, Akin Rotimi, emphasized that the parliament remains committed “to advancing policies and reforms that broaden opportunities for women and tackle structural inequalities affecting them.”
Observed globally on March 8, the day celebrates women’s resilience, leadership, and contributions while highlighting the ongoing need for gender equality.
Rotimi stated that the House joins Nigerians and the international community in commemorating the day and recognising the vital contributions of Nigerian women, both at home and in the diaspora, whose efforts continue to shape the nation’s social and economic development.
He added, “This year’s theme, ‘Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls,’ underscores the importance of moving beyond recognition toward tangible actions that advance gender equality. Despite progress in many areas, women and girls continue to face structural inequalities and systemic barriers that limit opportunities and compromise justice. Overcoming these challenges demands sustained reforms, stronger institutions, and collective commitment.”
The House spokesman also highlighted the global campaign “Give to Gain,” which reinforces the importance of investing in women and girls through education, mentorship, leadership, and economic opportunities. He noted that expanding such opportunities is not only a matter of fairness but also essential for sustainable national development.
“As the People’s House, the House of Representatives affirms that promoting the rights and welfare of women and girls is a shared responsibility requiring the engagement of governments, institutions, communities, and citizens alike,” Rotimi said.
He stressed that inclusive governance and equitable legal frameworks are crucial to strengthening democratic institutions and ensuring that all Nigerians can meaningfully contribute to national progress.
According to Rotimi, the House of Reps has, under Agenda 6 (Inclusion and Open Parliament) of its legislative agenda, enhanced oversight of relevant institutions to ensure compliance with the National Gender Policy while advancing bills designed to promote women’s participation and protection.
Among current legislative initiatives are proposals to ensure gender-responsive recruitment into security agencies, including measures aiming for at least 15 per cent female representation in the Nigeria Police Force and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps.
Several constitutional amendment bills aimed at enhancing inclusion are also before the House. These include proposals to reserve specific seats for women in the National Assembly and State Houses of Assembly, allow independent candidates to contest presidential, governorship, and legislative elections, promote women’s inclusion in governance, grant citizenship rights to spouses, and replace the death penalty with life imprisonment for pregnant women convicted of capital offences.
The Ekiti lawmaker said these initiatives reflect the House of Reps commitment to removing structural barriers, strengthening protections, and expanding opportunities for women within Nigeria’s democratic framework.
He further acknowledged the contributions of Nigerian women across governance, public service, enterprise, education, healthcare, and community leadership. He also highlighted the active role of the 17 female members of the 10th House of Representatives in legislative deliberations, policy development, and constituency representation.
Rotimi concluded, “When women and girls thrive, communities prosper, and nations grow stronger,” calling on government institutions, civil society, the private sector, and citizens to work together toward a society where the rights, dignity, and potential of every Nigerian woman and girl are fully realised.
