The Deputy Speaker of the House of Republican, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, has underscored the need for Nigeria to develop and invest in the girl child.
Speaking at the 6th TOS Foundation Symposium over the weekend to commemorate the “International Day of the Girl Child” in Abuja, Kalu advocated for equal opportunity for women within the political space to enable them contribute their quota to national development, saying it was the reason for the introduction of the reserved seats bill at the National Assembly.
He said: “No matter how gifted a legislator may be, there are realities that only women can legislate from experience. And until women sit at the table, entire chapters of our national story will remain unwritten. That is why the Special Seats Bill (HB 1349), which I proudly sponsor, seeks temporary reserved seats for women in Nigeria’s legislature; a necessary step to
correct decades of exclusion.
“Under the visionary leadership of Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, the 10th House of
Representatives, has placed inclusion at the heart of its Legislative Agenda. Our
Constitution Review process, which I am honoured to lead, is the most participatory in our nation’s history, anchored on genuine dialogue with women, youth, civil society, and traditional leaders across all regions and sectors of Nigeria, to ensure that every reform truly reflects the voice of the people”.
“Every law we make must open doors for the next generation. Investing in the girl
child is a worthy investment in Nigeria’s future. We must therefore ensure that
girls have equal access to education, mentorship, and leadership pathways,
especially in science, technology, and innovation, where tomorrow’s economy will be built”.
Deputy Speaker who expressed his gratitude to TOS Foundation for organizing the symposium that attracted dignitaries such as the Sultan of Sokoto, Sir Sa’adu Abubakar who pledged their support for the reserved seats bill also encouraged the women not to lose focus.
“To every Nigerian girl: there are no boundaries to what you can become. The world will test your courage, but you already have within you the strength to rise above every barrier. Dream boldly, work diligently, and never doubt your
potential. You have what it takes to lead, to shape, and to redefine the future.
To the women of Nigeria: your voice is a force. The nation is in the labour room of
reform, keep pushing until a new dawn of equity is born. To the men and society
at large: progress requires partnership. Every home must be the first classroom
of equality, for nations rise higher when both genders rise together.
“I thank the TOS Foundation for convening this symposium and for its tireless advocacy for women’s representation. Across civil society, women’s groups, youth networks, and development partners, many have worked diligently behind the scenes. I urge you to continue, for victory is almost here.
“Let us leave here today with the conviction that advancing women’s
representation through thoughtful policy is more than a reform; it is an investment
in Nigeria’s future. When we enshrine inclusion in policy and practice, we do
more than change laws; we shape the Nigeria we all dream of”, Kalu said.
