February 16, (THEWILL) — The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Sokoto State Chapter, has thrown its weight behind the Special Seats Bill (HB1349), calling for its immediate passage by the National Assembly.
In a statement issued in Sokoto, the association said it was aligning with the directive of the National President of NAWOJ for coordinated nationwide advocacy in support of the proposed legislation aimed at increasing women’s representation in governance.
The statement was signed by the Chairperson of NAWOJ Sokoto State Chapter, Aishatu Muhammad Madawaki, and the Secretary, Hadiza Haliru Muhammad.
The association described the Special Seats Bill as a necessary structural intervention rather than a privilege.
It noted that women remain significantly underrepresented in political decision-making spaces despite constituting a large percentage of Nigeria’s population.
According to the statement, the persistent imbalance in representation continues to weaken inclusive development and democratic growth across the country.
The Sokoto chapter specifically called on federal lawmakers representing the state to vote in favour of the bill when it comes up for consideration.
It also urged the Sokoto State House of Assembly to publicly endorse increased women’s political participation and representation.
NAWOJ pledged to sustain media advocacy to keep the conversation on women’s inclusion active and visible, stressing that the moment presents a critical opportunity to advance equity and justice in governance.
“This is a defining moment for Nigerian women. The time for action is now”, the statement read.
Tunde Omolehin is an award-winning Journalist with prose in investigative and storytelling that is connecting the dots between the under-reported communities and policymakers to ensure good governance and accountability.
