NUJ FCT Council applauds Governors’ support for reserved seats for women bill

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, has commended the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) for its endorsement of the Reserved Seats for Women Bill (HB 1349), a legislative proposal aimed at improving women’s representation in governance at both national and state levels.

In a statement issued in Abuja, the Chairperson of the NUJ FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike, described the NGF’s decision as a “bold and commendable step” towards strengthening gender equity, inclusion, and democratic participation in Nigeria’s political landscape.

The endorsement was announced at the conclusion of the NGF’s fifth meeting held on Thursday, 23 October 2025, where the governors collectively expressed support for the constitutional amendment that seeks to create special constituencies exclusively contested by women.

Comrade Ike noted that the initiative represents a pragmatic approach to correcting long-standing gender disparities in legislative representation and advancing the cause of gender justice in the country.

“The NUJ FCT Council recognises the importance of this proposed amendment as a necessary intervention to promote inclusiveness and give women a stronger voice in decision-making at all levels of government,” she stated.

She praised the governors for their foresight and political will, urging members of both the National and State Assemblies to demonstrate similar commitment by voting in favour of the bill when it comes up for consideration between 4 and 6 November 2025.

The NUJ FCT Council also called on the media, civil society organisations, and other stakeholders to sustain advocacy and public enlightenment on the importance of inclusive governance, describing it as a catalyst for national development and democratic consolidation.

Comrade Ike reaffirmed the union’s commitment to amplifying voices that promote gender inclusion, noting that fair representation of women in governance remains crucial to Nigeria’s progress and stability.