Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre (PLAC), with support from the European Union, held a webinar on Tuesday, 19 August 2025 to present insights from a recent survey on the Special Seats Bill. The event, titled “Sustaining Momentum for the Special Seats Bill: Survey Insights on Public Understanding and Support”, was open to the public, with stakeholders from civil society, government, development partners and the media participating.
In her welcome remarks, Omolara Akinyeye, Deputy Executive Director of PLAC, restated the organisation’s commitment to ensuring the Bill succeeds. She noted that while the leadership of the 10th National Assembly has shown support, it is important that citizens’ voices are heard to push the Bill from debate into law.
Speaking on behalf of the European Union Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, OlaOluwa Olawumi said the EU remains committed to supporting women’s participation in governance and decision-making. She expressed hope that discussions on the Bill will continue when lawmakers return from recess.
Highlights of the perception poll were presented by Dr. Chike Nwangwu of NOIPolls. He noted that while many Nigerians are only beginning to learn about the Bill, there is already significant support for creating more opportunities for women in governance.
Drawing from his experience as a legislator, Hon. Rima Shawulu stressed the need for advocates to engage lawmakers directly in their constituencies. He explained that local-level advocacy plays a vital role in sustaining attention on the Bill.
Communications expert Esther Hadiza Ijeaku added that clear and simple messages are key to growing support, noting that effective communication can bring more citizens into the conversation.
In her closing remarks, Nkiru Uzodi, Programme Manager at PLAC, described the survey results as showing strong support for women in governance. She outlined next steps, including wider dissemination of the findings, clearer advocacy messaging, stronger engagement with legislators, and coordinated efforts with partners. She urged participants to keep the momentum alive until the Bill is passed and signed into law.
The webinar, moderated by journalist Terri Ikumi of Channels Television, highlighted how data, advocacy and communication can work together to build stronger support for women’s political representation.
If you missed the webinar, you can catch up [here], and follow [this link] to read a digest of the survey findings on public understanding and support for the Special Seats Bill.
