Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, has stated that the rationale behind sponsoring the gender bills in parliament is to foster political inclusivity and accelerate national development.
Hon. Kalu disclosed this in London on Friday while celebrating the former Vice President and Treasurer of the World Bank and Director General of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Arunma Oteh, on her 60th birthday.
The Deputy Speaker, alongside some colleagues, is sponsoring a bill to amend the 1999 Constitution to provide seat reservations for women in the National Assembly and State Houses of Assembly.
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Kalu emphasized that providing women with a platform in parliament and other political spheres to contribute their expertise would drive significant national growth.
The bill aims to address the underrepresentation of women in legislative houses by creating special constituencies to be contested and filled exclusively by women. This measure is intended as a temporary step to promote women’s political representation and will be subject to review after four general election cycles (16 years) to determine whether it should be retained, increased, or abolished.
Speaking during the official launch of a book titled All Hands On Deck, as part of the activities marking Oteh’s 60th birthday, Kalu praised her as a role model for her exemplary service. He highlighted her achievements as a former SEC DG and her current role as an Executive in Residence at Said Business School, Oxford University.
The Deputy Speaker noted that women like Oteh, who hails from his Bende Federal Constituency in Abia State, inspire him to propose bills aimed at increasing women’s representation in Nigerian politics.
“Through her remarkable contributions in both public and private sectors, she has left an indelible mark in history. Arunma is a role model and proof that with diligence, excellence, and the application of God-given talents, the top is just the beginning,” Kalu said.
At a reception held in Oteh’s honor, Kalu added, “We are celebrating a woman of credibility, integrity, and excellence. She embodies transparency and accountability in leadership. I am delighted to be part of this celebration. As a member of her hometown, I can attest to her impact, including building one of the best sports centers in my federal constituency and empowering many people. Her legacy is profound, and we treasure her.”
Notable attendees at the event included former Vice President Prof. Yemi Osinbajo; members of the House of Representatives, such as Hon. Chris Nkwonta, Hon. Ginger Onwusibe, and Hon. Ibe Okwara; former Ministers of Finance Segun Aganga and Kemi Adeosun; former CBN Governor and Emir of Kano, Mohammed Sanusi II; captains of industry, including SEPLAT Chairman Dr. A.B.C Orjiako and Mrs. Uju Ifejika; President of the Nigerian Exchange, Dr. Umaru Kwargana; Director-General of the Securities and Exchange Commission, Tim Agada; former Presidential Candidate Prof. Kingsley Muoghalu; former Anambra governorship candidate Valentine Ozigbo; President of Afrexim Bank, Prof. Benedict Oramah; Access Bank Chairman Aigboje Aig-Imokhuede, and many others.
