2025 promises significant legislative interventions affecting the lives of women, youth, and marginalised communities.
As the new year 2025 kicks off, this edition of our Gender and Social Inclusion (GESI) focuses on legislative interventions anticipated to receive attention.
Bills driving gender equality and inclusion
In 2025, we look forward to the deliberation of transformative bills designed to address gender gaps and promote inclusivity across key sectors in Nigeria. Notable among the proposed laws already in the National Assembly are:
- Discrimination against Persons with Disabilities Act (Amendment) Bill 2024: This bill seeks to strengthen the existing framework for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), ensuring access to opportunities, resources, and protection from discrimination. Having passed its first reading in the House of Representatives, it is expected that it will be enacted into law to significantly benefit PWDs.
- Youth improvement management commission bill: Having passed its second reading in the House of Representatives, this bill aims to tackle youth unemployment by providing access to loans for vocational ventures, fostering economic growth. Its passage into law and subsequent presidential assent will undoubtedly benefit Nigeria’s youth and the nation as a whole.
- Special legislative seats for PWDs: Introduced by the Speaker of the House and currently passed first reading, this bill proposes dedicated seats for PWDs in the national assembly. This bill will amplify the voices of PWDs in national discourse and decision-making.
- Sexual harassment of students (prevention and prohibition) bill: Introduced in the senate, this bill seeks to fight sexual harassment in tertiary institutions in the country and safeguard vulnerable students from being preys. Enacting this bill into law will promote social justice and provide an avenue for redress, ensuring that all students can pursue education without fear and intimidation.
- National commission for elderly persons (establishment) bill: While this bill has gone through first reading in the House of Representatives, it is paramount to the social inclusion of the elderly as they often face isolation. Establishing this commission will align with the principles of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of leaving no one behind, thereby enhancing the quality of life of the elderly persons.
- Bill to increase women representation in the national assembly: After facing multiple rejections in previous assemblies, this bill has advanced to its second reading in the House of Representatives. It aims to promote gender equality by increasing the number of women in the national assembly.
As these bills navigate the legislative process, citizens are hopeful that additional Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI)-focused bills will be introduced in the National Assembly, paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable society
READ ALSO: 2025 Budget: Allocations to Women, Youth and Vulnerable People |GESI Tracker
GESI in Speeches and Debates
This year, we expect more lawmakers to use their platforms to champion inclusion in their debates. Their speeches will likely shed light on:
- The progress of existing GESI-related policies.
- The need for gender-responsive budgeting.
- The importance of youth and women’s participation in governance.
The speeches and debates of lawmakers will play a significant role in shaping public perception and driving legislative priorities.
How citizens can stay engaged
Here’s how citizens can participate in the legislative process and amplify the GESI agenda:
- Follow legislative roceedings: Watch or listen to national assembly sessions and stay updated on discussions that matter to you.
- Hold representatives accountable: Follow OrderPaper on our social media handles to get real-time updates on the national assembly and track lawmakers’ commitments and demand action on their promises.
- Provide feedback: You can use your social media handles to seek input on key bills or policies.
