NAWOJ backs Women’s march for Special Seats Bill at National Assembly

The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) has commended Nigerian women who marched in solidarity to the National Assembly in support of the proposed Special Seats Bill.

In a statement, NAWOJ described the demonstration as more than a protest, calling it a defining moment in the struggle for gender equity and fair political representation in Nigeria.

According to the association, the march represents the united voice of women demanding justice, inclusion, and equitable participation in governance. It noted that democracy cannot fully thrive when women — who make up nearly half of the population — remain underrepresented in elective offices.

NAWOJ emphasised that the Special Seats Bill is not a privilege but a corrective measure aimed at addressing longstanding structural imbalances in political representation.

“For decades, women have played critical roles in nation-building across sectors, yet their representation in governance remains alarmingly low,” the association stated.

The group praised the peaceful and organised conduct of the marchers, noting that their voices resonated beyond the gates of the National Assembly and across the country.

NAWOJ called on lawmakers to prioritise justice and national progress above partisan interests by passing the bill. It added that the legislation would signal Nigeria’s commitment to inclusive governance and women’s empowerment.

The association further urged women’s groups, civil society organisations, professional bodies, and other stakeholders to sustain advocacy efforts until the bill becomes law.

Reaffirming its stance, NAWOJ declared:

“We will not relent.
We will not retreat.
We will not be silenced.”

The association concluded that the push for equitable representation will continue until justice is achieved.