The House of Representatives has reiterated its commitment to promoting policies and reforms that support the rights, inclusion and welfare of women and girls across Nigeria.
This was contained in a statement issued on Sunday by the spokesman of the House, Akin Rotimi, to commemorate the 2026 edition of International Women’s Day.
Observed globally every March 8, the day celebrates the achievements, resilience and leadership of women while also highlighting the continued need to address gender inequality.
Rotimi said the lower chamber joined Nigerians and the international community in marking the occasion and acknowledging the contributions of Nigerian women at home and abroad, whose efforts continue to shape the country’s development.
“This year’s theme, ‘Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls,’ highlights the need to move beyond recognition toward concrete measures that advance gender equality.
“Despite notable progress in many areas, women and girls still face structural inequalities and systemic barriers that limit opportunity and undermine justice. Addressing these challenges requires sustained reforms, stronger institutions, and collective commitment,” he said.
The House spokesman also noted that the global campaign “Give to Gain” underscores the importance of investing in women and girls through education, mentorship, leadership opportunities and economic empowerment.
According to him, expanding opportunities for women is not only a matter of fairness but also essential for sustainable national development.
“As the People’s House, the House of Representatives affirms that promoting the rights and well-being of women and girls is a shared responsibility requiring the commitment of governments, institutions, communities and citizens alike,” Rotimi said.
He added that inclusive governance and equitable legal frameworks are critical to strengthening democratic institutions and enabling all Nigerians to contribute meaningfully to national progress.
Rotimi explained that, in line with Agenda 6 of the House’s legislative agenda — which focuses on inclusion and open parliament — lawmakers have intensified oversight of institutions to ensure adherence to the National Gender Policy while advancing legislation that supports women’s participation and protection.
Among the proposals currently under consideration are bills aimed at ensuring gender-sensitive recruitment into security agencies, including plans to guarantee at least 15 percent female representation in recruitment into the Nigeria Police Force and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps.
He further disclosed that several constitutional amendment bills are also before the parliament, including proposals to create dedicated seats for women in the National Assembly and state houses of assembly.
Other proposals seek to allow independent candidates to contest presidential, governorship and legislative elections, promote greater inclusion of women in governance, grant citizenship rights to spouses, and replace the death penalty with life imprisonment for pregnant women convicted of capital offences.
Rotimi said these legislative initiatives reflect the House’s determination to dismantle structural barriers and expand opportunities for women within Nigeria’s democratic system.
He also commended Nigerian women for their contributions across sectors such as governance, business, education, healthcare, public service and community leadership.
The lawmaker noted that the 17 female members of the 10th House of Representatives have continued to play key roles in legislative debates, policymaking and constituency representation.
“When women and girls thrive, communities prosper, and nations grow stronger,” Rotimi said.
He called on government institutions, civil society organisations, the private sector and citizens to work together in building a society where the rights, dignity and potential of every Nigerian woman and girl are fully realised.
