The Kaduna State Chapter of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) has thrown its weight behind the nationwide advocacy for the urgent passage of the Special Seats Bill (HB1349), describing it as a critical step toward inclusive governance and democratic progress in Nigeria.
In a press statement signed by the Chairperson of NAWOJ Kaduna State Chapter, Sahura Jibril Maidoki, and the Secretary, Hadiza Bello Abdullahi on February 16, 2026, NAWOJ Kaduna aligned with women converging on the National Assembly of Nigeria to demand structural reforms that would guarantee increased political representation for women.
The association stressed that the proposed Special Seats are not symbolic but constitute a practical intervention to address decades of systemic exclusion of women from governance and decision-making spaces.
According to NAWOJ Kaduna, Nigeria’s democratic advancement remains incomplete while women—who make up roughly half of the population—continue to be underrepresented in political leadership. The group noted that despite women’s proven competence and leadership capacity across sectors, political structures have failed to reflect this reality.
“The Special Seats Bill provides a workable framework to bridge this gap and strengthen inclusive governance,” the statement said.
NAWOJ Kaduna called on members of the National Assembly representing the state to vote in favour of the bill in the interest of equity and democratic development. It also urged the Kaduna State House of Assembly to publicly endorse efforts aimed at expanding women’s political participation.
The association further appealed to political parties, civil society organisations, professional bodies and community leaders to lend visible and vocal support to the reform, noting that inclusive governance enhances accountability, improves policy responsiveness and accelerates development outcomes.
NAWOJ Kaduna reaffirmed its commitment to sustained media advocacy, public engagement and stakeholder mobilisation until tangible progress is achieved, pledging to continue using its platforms to educate and mobilise citizens on the importance of the bill.
“This is a defining moment for Nigeria’s democracy. The time for incremental gestures has passed; structural inclusion must begin now,” the statement concluded.