Osasu Igbinedion Ogwuche, who leads the TOS Foundation Africa, has pressed Nigerian legislators to support the bill proposing reserved seats for women, cautioning that the country’s dismally low levels of female participation in the political arena pose both democratic and economic hindrances.
In a recent interview with ARISE News, Ogwuche pointed out that Nigeria is currently at the bottom of African nations regarding women's representation in parliament, despite women constituting almost half of the population.
She emphasized that the intended legislation transcends mere symbolism and aims to unlock various economic and governance advantages.
"Rwanda boasts 63.5 percent of women in its parliament, while Nigeria stands last in a ranking of 54 African nations. Globally, our position is roughly 174 out of 182," she stated.
Ogwuche remarked that although women make up nearly 50 percent of Nigeria's demographic, they hold just about four percent of parliamentary seats—specifically, 16 out of 360 in the House of Representatives and four out of 109 in the Senate.
In the nation’s 36 state assemblies, which consist of approximately 993 positions, only around 51 are occupied by women, and some states lack female representation entirely.
She underscored that boosting women's involvement in governance could yield tangible economic advantages.
"Advocating for the reserved seats bill isn't merely symbolic; it's a socioeconomic argument. Research by the World Bank, McKinsey, and other UN agencies suggests that by 2030, Nigeria can potentially enhance its GDP by $229 billion by addressing gender disparities in both the workforce and political spheres."
Ogwuche noted that the current government demonstrates solid political backing for this initiative.
"Fortunately, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, and key leaders in the legislature and executive have recognized the economic and political benefits of enhancing female participation in governance. They have all expressed their support for the reserved seats bill for women," she mentioned.
She added that the First Lady recently hosted a dinner for parliamentarians to rally support for the bill.
"The First Lady organized a lovely dinner for parliamentarians late last year, urging them to vote in favor of the bill when it comes up for the third reading in the National Assembly."
Ogwuche also highlighted the President's commendation of the Speaker and Senate President for their endorsement of the reserved seats bill on December 19, emphasizing that it is a major priority for his administration, aligning with the APC's Renewed Hope agenda.
She pointed out the increasing bipartisan support across various political affiliations and state governments.
"During my visit to Oyo State, Governor Seyi Makinde expressed his support for the bill, alongside the backing of the PDP, the APC chairman, and other parties. We're hopeful that this time around, a breakthrough is possible."
Ogwuche remembered past legislative attempts that did not succeed.
"In the 8th Assembly, a similar bill backed by Senator Biodun Olujimi failed, despite support from then Senate President Bukola Saraki. The 9th Assembly saw another similar proposal from Honourable Nkiruka Onyejeocha, supported by Speaker Femi Gbajabiamila, which also did not succeed."
"Now in the 10th Assembly, we have considerable bipartisan support, and extensive lobbying is taking place. We are optimistic that when the bill is presented for its third reading, lawmakers will act favorably."
She reiterated that enhancing female leadership has broad societal benefits.
"This isn't an emotional case; it is one that brings socioeconomic advantages for all Nigerians, as nations flourish when women take the lead."
In addition to her advocacy for the bill, Ogwuche mentioned that civil society organizations are preparing women for leadership through training and mentorship.
"TOS Foundation Africa has entered into a memorandum of understanding with the Swiss Embassy in Nigeria, launching our Academy Leadership Institute. This initiative aims to empower women interested in politics to run successfully and to provide them with the skills, competence, and capacity to legislate upon their victory."
She pointed out the mentorship gap that many women face in the political realm.
"Unlike their male peers, who often have mentors and guides, many women lack similar support. A senior member of the National Assembly shared that his ascension to leadership was facilitated by someone who mentored him. If more women had this kind of support, a greater number would be active as soon as they become parliamentarians."
The program plans to select candidates from across the country.
"We are currently scouting for participants, aiming to select one representative from each state and the FCT, totaling 37 participants who will undergo a rigorous six-week training program with guidance from both current and former parliamentarians."
When addressing concerns about women supporting each other in politics, she affirmed that advocacy and solidarity among women are indeed growing.
"As a woman advocating for women, I assure you there are many others ready to take action. The Senate President has endorsed the bill, expressing his desire for his daughters to have equitable opportunities should they decide to run for parliamentary positions."
She underscored the critical timing for this proposal.
"The moment is right. We have the political willingness from the current government and public support. I truly believe we are at a pivotal point for enacting this change."
In response to worries that quota systems might advantage politically connected women over qualified candidates, Ogwuche asserted that capable women already exist in Nigeria.
"Numerous competent women, beyond those linked to influential men, are ready. There are examples like Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and Senator Olujimi in the 8th Assembly, who performed admirably due to their talent and political acumen."
She concluded that political competition would ultimately ensure quality representation.
"With the passing of the reserved seats bill, women will be competing with each other. The APC will nominate a female candidate, as will the PDP and ADC, ensuring that the best woman will rise to the top. I am very hopeful about this development."
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