By Ismaeel Aleem
A member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Working Committee and national leader for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), Tolu Bankole, has strongly endorsed the Reserved Seats for Women Bill, urging its swift passage while calling for similar affirmative action for PWDs.
In a statement issued in Abuja on Sunday, Bankole described the bill as “timely and reflective of Nigeria’s readiness” to enhance female representation in politics.
The bill, set for its third reading in October 2025, proposes 37 additional Senate seats, 37 in the House of Representatives, and three reserved seats per state in all 36 state assemblies, exclusively for female candidates.
It will require approval from state assemblies before presidential assent.
Currently, women occupy only 3.7 per cent of Senate seats and 3.9 per cent of House of Representatives seats, underscoring Nigeria’s low female legislative representation.
Bankole praised women’s contributions, stating, “Women are the engine room of development. No women, no nation.
“Nigerian women are smart, responsive, caring, and competent, bringing distinguished managerial ingenuity to leadership.”
He highlighted their role in enriching decision-making, fostering innovation, and strengthening democracy through diverse perspectives and collaborative leadership.
Extending his advocacy, Bankole urged legislators to incorporate provisions for PWDs in the bill.
“I respectfully urge our distinguished legislators to pass this bill without delay and extend the same treatment to Persons with Disabilities, who remain among the most vulnerable,” he said.
He described affirmative action for PWDs as a “national imperative” to harness their skills and address systemic barriers, ensuring inclusivity in governance.
Bankole emphasised that including women and PWDs would break stereotypes, offer role models for future generations, and enhance Nigeria’s democratic framework.
