NGF Backs Women’s Reserved Seats Bill, Pledges Lobby Support

The Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) has endorsed the proposed bill seeking to reserve seats for women in the country’s national and state legislatures, pledging to work toward its passage.

In a communiqué released early Friday after their meeting in Abuja, the governors urged collective lobbying efforts among federal and state lawmakers to ensure the bill becomes law. The proposed legislation seeks to amend the 1999 Constitution to create special constituencies that will be exclusively contested by women, a move aimed at improving female representation in governance.

The NGF described the bill as a progressive step toward gender inclusion and political balance, emphasizing that increased women’s participation in decision-making would strengthen democracy and enhance equitable development across the country.

The forum also expressed support for the Federal Government’s ongoing fiscal reforms, particularly those implemented by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), which are designed to stabilize the economy and strengthen monetary policy. The governors commended the reforms, noting that the collaboration between federal and state authorities remains essential to sustaining national economic recovery.

“The governors reaffirmed their commitment to economic stability and inclusive governance while recognizing the importance of women’s participation in politics as a key component of national development,” the statement read in part.

Additionally, the forum reiterated its dedication to addressing Nigeria’s security challenges. The governors pledged continued cooperation with the Department of State Services (DSS) and other security agencies to combat emerging threats and enhance public safety across all regions.

The NGF emphasized that state governments would continue to invest in community-based initiatives and intelligence-sharing mechanisms to strengthen internal security and promote peace and stability.

The meeting concluded with a renewed call for unity among state leaders, federal institutions, and civil society to advance inclusive governance and sustainable development throughout Nigeria.