CONSTITUTION OF THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA (ALTERATION BILL)

A Bill proposes amending the 1999 Constitution to enhance gender inclusivity in Nigeria's political system. It mandates the creation of special reserved seats for women in the National and State Houses of Assembly. This measure aims to correct historical underrepresentation and empower women in governance.

What Is This Policy?

The Constitution Alteration Bill (2024) is a legislative proposal to amend the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria to create special reserved seats for women in the National Assembly and State Houses of Assembly, thereby increasing female representation in governance.

Who Does It Target?

The Bill is directed at women in Nigeria’s political and governance space, aiming to provide them with guaranteed representation in legislative bodies. It also targets political parties and electoral institutions, requiring them to adjust candidate selection processes.

What Does It Aim to Achieve?

The Bill aims to enhance gender inclusivity in Nigeria’s political system by ensuring women have reserved seats in legislative assemblies. It seeks to correct historical underrepresentation, empower women in decision-making, and align Nigeria with global democratic practices that promote gender balance.

Key Features

Alteration of Sections 48, 49, 71, 77, 91, and 117 of the Constitution. Provision of special reserved seats for women in the National Assembly and State Houses of Assembly. Legal recognition of gender inclusivity in governance. Alignment with Nigeria’s international obligations on gender equality.

Current Status

Rollout Stage: undergoing legislative consideration. Coverage: applies nationwide Beneficiaries to Date: None yet, as the Bill is not enacted Funding: Federal Government budget allocations once implemented

How to Access

• National Assembly Portal: https://nass.gov.ng • Nigeria Legal Information Institute (NigerLII): http://www.nigerlii.org • Federal Ministry of Justice: https://justice.gov.ng

Important Terms

Term 1- Reserved Seats for Women This refers to constitutionally guaranteed positions in legislative assemblies specifically allocated to female candidates, ensuring their representation regardless of electoral outcomes. Term 2- Constitution Alteration The formal process of amending sections of the 1999 Constitution to reflect new legal, social, or political realities. In this case, it focuses on gender inclusivity.

Official Resources

• National Assembly of Nigeria Website: https://nass.gov.ng • Federal Ministry of Justice Website: https://justice.gov.ng • Nigeria Legal Information Institute (NigerLII) Website: http://www.nigerlii.org Link to document- https://placng.org/i/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/HB.1349.pdf

Legal Framework

Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (provisions being amended); Electoral Act 2022; Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW); African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights (Maputo Protocol)