The BO Foundation for Inclusive Media (BOFIM), a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing social inclusion and equity through impactful journalism, has commended the Nigerian House of Representatives for its progressive move to amend the Constitution and reserve seats for women and persons with disabilities (PWDs) in the National Assembly.
The proposed amendment would create 82 additional seats 55 in the House of Representatives and 27 in the Senate, specifically allocated for historically marginalized groups.
In a statement signed by the Executive Director, Blessing Oladunjoye, she described the proposal as a bold and visionary step toward correcting long-standing underrepresentation.
“We applaud this initiative as a testament to Nigeria’s commitment to fostering a more inclusive democracy,” Oladunjoye said.
Currently, women hold just 4.7% of seats in the House of Representatives and 2.7% in the Senate. The representation of persons with disabilities is even more negligible. This stark imbalance, according to BOFIM, show the urgent need for systemic reforms that ensure all Nigerians have a voice in governance.
BOFIM noted that the reserved seats would amplify voices that have historically been sidelined from the country’s political discourse. “By ensuring dedicated seats, Nigeria is setting a precedent for inclusive participation,” the organization stated.
However, BOFIM cautioned against interpreting the quotas as a ceiling for participation. “These reserved seats should not be seen as a limit. They are a floor, a minimum guarantee,” Oladunjoye emphasized. She added that women and PWDs must still be free to compete for any seat in the National Assembly alongside other candidates.
“True equality demands that their potential to lead is not confined to designated spaces but is recognized across all levels of governance,” she said.
BOFIM insisted that the bill must not restrict opportunities but rather open up more avenues for inclusive political leadership.
The organization called for the swift passage of the bill through the legislative process and urged the establishment of strong implementation mechanisms to ensure the seats are filled effectively and equitably.
BOFIM also pledged its support for the initiative through advocacy, capacity-building, and multi-stakeholder engagement. “We encourage all Nigerians to rally behind this proposal, recognizing that an inclusive legislature strengthens our democracy and paves the way for a more equitable future,” Oladunjoye said.
With emphasis on gender, disability, and human rights, BOFIM continues to train journalists across Nigeria to produce inclusive, ethical, and evidence-based stories that reshape public discourse and drive social change.