Women could get 74 additional seats in Nigeria’s National Assembly under a proposed constitutional amendment aimed at increasing female representation in politics. The proposal would also reserve three seats for women in every state House of Assembly. It seeks to give more women opportunities to participate in lawmaking and governance.
Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele disclosed the plan on Monday during the 2026 Law Week organised by FIDA’s Ekiti State chapter. Bamidele, who represents Ekiti Central Senatorial District, said the proposal formed part of the ongoing review of the 1999 Constitution.
Under the plan, the Senate and House of Representatives would each receive 37 additional seats. Every state and the Federal Capital Territory would get one extra seat in both chambers.
Furthermore, each state House of Assembly would have three reserved seats for women. The arrangement would not affect the positions of existing lawmakers. Bamidele explained that the proposal would remain in place for 16 years. This period would cover four electoral cycles before a full review takes place.
He described the plan as a non-partisan effort to address the low representation of women in Nigerian politics.
“A democracy that systematically excludes over half of its population from the decision-making tables that determine their futures is, at best, a flawed democracy and, at worst, a veiled oligarchy.”
The Senate leader said the National Assembly had started consultations with state legislatures. Their approval is required before the proposed constitutional amendment can become law. Beyond political representation, Bamidele called for stronger protection for women and children. He specifically highlighted the need to address domestic violence and abuse.
Meanwhile, Afe Babalola University Vice-Chancellor, Professor Smaranda Olarinde, urged lawmakers to strengthen laws against technology-based abuse. She identified cyberstalking, online harassment, deepfake images and child exploitation as issues requiring stronger legal action.
Similarly, FIDA Ekiti Chairperson, Ayobami Olowoyo-Richards, called for stronger laws and institutions. She said these measures were necessary to protect the rights and dignity of women and children.
