The House of Representatives speaker and state assembly speakers concluded 16 days of activism on gender-based violence in Abuja.
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep. Tajudeen Abbas, along with State Houses of Assembly speakers, wrapped up the 16-day activism against gender-based violence (GBV) on International Human Rights Day.
Recall that Abbas led an advocacy walk on November 25, 2025, from the National Assembly to the Police Force Headquarters, where he submitted a petition to the Inspector General of Police. The speaker emphasized that this initiative aimed to unite stakeholders in protecting and empowering women and girls across Nigeria.
According to Abbas, “this action demonstrates our commitment to combating violence against Nigerian women and creating a safer, more equitable society. This campaign began on November 25th, with the People’s House taking a prominent role. On that day, I had the privilege of leading an Advocacy Walk from the National Assembly to the Force Headquarters, culminating in the submission of a petition to the Inspector General of Police. This action signified our resolve to combat violence against Nigerian women and to reinforce our collective commitment to creating a safer and more equitable society.
“As we mark the conclusion of this critical campaign today, we also celebrate International Human Rights Day. These 16 days have served as a rallying point, uniting diverse stakeholders in a shared mission to protect and empower women and girls across Nigeria.”
The number three citizen of Nigeria also echoed that the National Assembly has been at the forefront of women representation and inclusion.
“The National Assembly has long been at the forefront of the fight against GBV and the advocacy for greater women’s representation. Since 1999, we have championed transformative legislative reforms, including the enactment of the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act (VAPP), the Child Rights Act, and the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act. These laws have laid a solid foundation for addressing GBV and advancing gender equity.
”The 10th Assembly has amplified these efforts through its legislative agenda, which prioritises constitutional reforms to promote women’s political participation and representation. This agenda reflects our recognition of the indispensable role women play in governance and the broader societal fabric. Women are the cornerstone of our families and communities, yet their political representation remains unacceptably low. This imbalance must change—not for improved statistics but for the transformative value women bring to governance, leadership, and policymaking.”
He also explained that the role of women in the society can not be overemphasised. “The importance of eradicating GBV and promoting women’s representation cannot be overstated. A society that protects its women and leverages their potential is one that secures its future. Women are the glue that holds our families and communities together. Despite this, systemic barriers, including cultural norms, economic inequality, and inadequate legal protections, have hindered their full participation in political and public life.
“The 10th Assembly has taken proactive steps to address these barriers. Recognising past pitfalls, we have commenced the constitutional amendment process early to allow for extensive consultation and consensus-building. The House Committee on Constitution Amendment has embarked on robust sensitisation and advocacy efforts, engaging stakeholders to build support for provisions that will constitutionalise greater women’s representation.
“These efforts go beyond tokenism. Affirmative action for women is not undemocratic; it is a necessary corrective measure to address historical inequities and unlock our nation’s full potential. Many African countries, such as Rwanda and South Africa, have successfully enshrined affirmative action in their constitutions.”
Abbas commended his colleagues in the State Houses of Assembly for their steadfastness and support for the fight against GBV. As he therefore urged them to replicate the same actions take in Rwanda, Uganda and Zimbabwe where a legal framework has been put in place to give women more opportunities.
“The 2003 Constitution of Rwanda mandates that at least 30% of positions in decision-making organs be reserved for women, a policy that has propelled women to hold 61.3% of parliamentary seats. Similarly, recent reforms to the Indian Constitution allocate 33% of seats for women in the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies. Nepal’s Constitution requires that women make up at least one-third of the total members of the federal parliament. In Uganda, the Constitution ensures one woman representative for every district in Parliament. Meanwhile, Tanzania’s Constitution reserves special seats for women, comprising no less than 30% of parliamentary seats. Zimbabwe’s Constitution also guarantees 60 additional seats for women in the National Assembly during its first two parliaments after enactment. Nigeria must embrace this progressive trend – not only to align with global advancements in gender inclusion but also to set a leading example for others.
“State Houses of Assembly are pivotal to achieving meaningful constitutional reforms. The active participation and support of State Speakers are crucial in ensuring that gender-focused amendments and legislation are adopted at the subnational level.”
