… As Rt.Hon. Benjamin Kalu Articulates A Vision Of A More Inclusive Nigeria.
In a significant gathering at the House of Representatives, Deputy Speaker Rt Hon Benjamin Kalu delivered a welcome address at the International Legislative Dialogue on Women and Constitution Amendment, emphasizing the urgent need for enhanced political representation of women in Nigeria.
Rt Hon Kalu welcomed a diverse group of advocates, policymakers, and legislators, highlighting the importance of the dialogue as a reaffirmation of the commitment to improving women’s roles in governance.
He articulated a vision for a more inclusive Nigeria, recognizing the essential contributions of women to the political landscape.
The Deputy Speaker presented alarming statistics from the recent 2023 general elections, revealing that only 1,552 out of 15,307 candidates were women, a stark reminder of the societal and structural barriers that hinder women’s participation in democracy.
He stressed that inclusive governance is not just a matter of equity but a strategic necessity for the nation’s advancement.
Drawing comparisons with African nations such as Rwanda, Tanzania, and Senegal, Rt How Kalu pointed out the positive outcomes of gender parity in governance, including innovation and economic growth.
He noted that Nigeria could see a 9% increase in GDP by 2025 if women’s participation in leadership roles is enhanced, framing the investment in women’s leadership as both a moral obligation and a practical strategy for national development.
The House of Representatives is currently pursuing constitutional reforms, with Rt Hon Benjamin Kalu leading the House Committee on Constitution Review.
A proposed bill aims to reserve seats for women in the National and State Houses of Assembly, addressing the gender imbalance in governance.
Rt Hon Benjamin Kalu clarified that while this measure is temporary, it is a crucial step toward achieving meaningful representation for women.
He argued that reserved seats would help navigate the challenges of the electoral system, ensuring that women not only run for office but also occupy influential positions within legislative bodies.
This initiative reflects a broader understanding that systemic change is necessary to dismantle the barriers that have historically marginalized women in politics.
Rt Hon Benjamin Kalu also framed the investment in women’s inclusion as an investment in Nigeria’s future, linking higher rates of women’s representation to improvements in health, education, and economic stability.
He called for a legislature that reflects the diverse makeup of the citizenry, asserting that gender equality is a national imperative that impacts all citizens.
Let me conclude by saying that the Deputy Speaker’s address was a powerful affirmation of Nigeria’s commitment to gender equality in governance.
As discussions progress, there is hope that the vision of an inclusive democracy will be realized, ensuring that women’s voices are not only heard but are integral to the nation’s future.
