The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Akwa Ibom State chapter, has stepped up advocacy for the passage of the Special Seats Bill, calling on members of the National Assembly from the state to vote in favour of the proposed legislation.
The appeal coincides with the participation of NAWOJ’s national leadership and other stakeholders in the Nigeria Women Solidarity March held on Monday, February 16, 2026, at the National Assembly in Abuja in support of the bill.
In a statement jointly signed by the Akwa Ibom NAWOJ Chairman, Nsikak Okon, and Secretary, Mary Ekere, the association described the Special Seats Bill as a “constitutional correction” designed to address the persistent underrepresentation of women in governance.
The statement said the bill provides “a structured and lawful pathway to redress long-standing systemic exclusion” and represents a deliberate effort to strengthen democratic participation and ensure leadership reflects the diversity of Nigerian society.
The chapter specifically urged Akwa Ibom senators and members of the House of Representatives to support the bill when it comes up for consideration.
It also called on political leaders and key stakeholders across the state to publicly endorse the constitutional amendment, stressing the need for collective backing.
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NAWOJ further appealed to civil society organisations, women’s groups and development partners to intensify advocacy campaigns aimed at promoting inclusive representation in governance.
“Let it be recorded that Akwa Ibom stood on the side of justice. Let it be recorded that our lawmakers chose inclusion. Let it be recorded that Nigerian women refused to remain invisible,” the statement read.
The association maintained that inclusive governance is closely linked to sustainable development, social cohesion and responsive policymaking, adding that increased female representation in leadership would broaden policy priorities and strengthen institutional accountability for the benefit of citizens.
