By Bashir Bello

KANO – The Yobe State House of Assembly has begun a legislative process to pass a new law to establish a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Commission to promote fairness and equal opportunity for all.

The Speaker of the Assembly, Hon. Chiroma Buba disclosed this in Kano during a one-day retreat organised by the Women Advocates Research and Documentation Centre (WARDC), with support from UN Women and Global Affairs Canada to review and improve the proposed bill to establish the commission.

Hon. Buba said the DEI bill has already passed its first and second readings and is now at the committee stage.

He said when the Commission is established, it would help ensure fairness and justice for all, especially the vulnerable groups.

According to him, “The bill seeks to serve as a platform for promoting equal representation, social justice, and, most importantly, to prohibit all forms of discrimination against women, persons with disabilities, ethnic minorities, and other marginalized communities.

“We understand that the strength of any society lies in its diversity, and that meaningful inclusion is not merely about representation, but about giving voice and agency to every member of our community.

“The DEI bill has already passed its first and second readings and is now at the committee stage. The next step will be to hold public hearings across the three senatorial zones of Yobe State.

“We want to hear directly from the people whether they support the bill, or want amendments. Their voices are very important before we finalize the law,” Buba added.

When asked whether the bill supports women’s political representation, the Speaker explained that while the Nigerian constitution guarantees equal rights, the DEI bill focuses more on access to services and inclusion in governance structures.

“In terms of contesting elections, women have the same rights as men. But this bill will ensure they are not left out when it comes to social amenities and other government opportunities,” he added.

The Speaker appreciated WARDC for their continued advocacy for inclusive governance.

The Founding Director of WARDC, Dr. Abiola Akiyode-Afolabi commended the Yobe Assembly for demonstrating political will toward building an inclusive society.

According to her, the bill will help break down barriers that have kept many people from fully participating in social, economic, and political life.

She said the bill includes key provisions like 35% minimum appointment slots for women, protection for the disabled, penalties for discrimination among others.