By Marie-Therese Nanlong

Jos – In Nigeria’s evolving democratic journey, the underrepresentation of women remains a critical concern.
Though women constitute nearly half the population, they occupy less than 10% of elective positions.

The Women’s Rights Advancement and Protection Alternative (WRAPA), backed by a coalition of civil society organizations (CSOs), is leading calls for constitutional reforms to correct this imbalance.

At a North Central zonal constitutional review session held in Jos, Plateau State, WRAPA and its partners presented a joint memorandum focused on two key demands: the passage of the Additional/Reserved Seats for Women Bill and the reform of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) leadership appointment process.

They described the Additional Seats Bill as a historic opportunity to promote inclusive governance in Nigeria, a future where women influence decisions from within, not the sidelines.

“For decades, we’ve spoken about inclusion, but now we must act. This Bill is not about giving women undue advantage. It is about correcting a deeply entrenched imbalance and giving Nigeria a fairer shot at progress,”
said Saudatu Mahdi, WRAPA’s Secretary General.

The Bill proposes one additional Senate seat per State and the FCT, two House of Representatives seats per State, and one State Assembly seat per senatorial district. In total, it would create 37 new Senate seats, 74 in the House, and 108 in State Assemblies, all reserved for women.

To ensure fairness, the coalition recommended a special constituency framework for these seats and proposed a 12-year implementation period, covering three electoral cycles, with a mid-term review. A rotation system within senatorial districts and constituencies was also suggested to avoid regional dominance.

“This is not just a gender issue; it is a development issue. We cannot build a strong democracy while leaving half the population behind,” Mahdi emphasized.

Beyond gender inclusion, the coalition also pushed for reforming INEC’s leadership appointment process. They cited concerns over political interference and credibility under the current system where the President appoints INEC leadership, subject to Senate confirmation.

WRAPA and partners are advocating for an independent, panel-led system as recommended by the Justice Uwais Committee and mirrored in Kenya’s IEBC model. Under this arrangement, a neutral selection panel would screen and nominate candidates. The President would choose from the shortlist, and the Senate would confirm, a process they believe would promote transparency and merit.

They also outlined clear criteria for INEC appointments to include minimum academic qualifications, proven public service experience, and a track record of integrity. According to the coalition, such reforms are essential for restoring public confidence and aligning with international best practices.

In their memorandum, the coalition appealed to the 10th National Assembly to treat these reforms as critical to Nigeria’s future. They urged lawmakers to pass the Additional/Reserved Seats Bill, secure adoption by State Assemblies, and obtain a swift Presidential assent. Likewise, they called for constitutional amendments to depoliticise INEC appointments.

“These are not just policy proposals; they are a reflection of hope. Hope that Nigeria can be a nation where leadership is defined not by gender, but by competence and service,” they insisted.

As WRAPA and civil society partners await the lawmakers’ response, the momentum for inclusive, transparent reform continues to grow, led by women determined to reshape Nigeria’s political future.