Seriake Dickson, representing Bayelsa West senatorial district, has reiterated his commitment to increasing women’s participation in governance through deliberate legislative action.

Mr Dickson, a former Bayelsa governor and the leader of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, made the commitment during a visit by an advocacy group, Women Collective Hub, led by Nkoyo Toyo, in Abuja.

He described Nigeria’s current level of female political representation as “very shameful”, especially when compared to countries like Rwanda, Senegal, and Liberia.

Speaking on ongoing efforts to reform the political system, the NDC leader emphasised that ensuring women have a place “on the table” is critical to strengthening democracy and inclusiveness.

He pointed to global examples, noting that women in other climes have repeatedly held top leadership roles, and Nigerian women are equally capable but are hindered by structural, cultural, and economic challenges.

Mr Dickson threw his weight behind affirmative action policies, particularly the proposed reserved seats bill to increase women’s representation in legislative bodies, arguing that comprehensive electoral reform would boost women’s participation.

“Nigeria has competent women who can lead ,but we have to create a mechanism. This is why these reserved seats and other forms of affirmative action are important. This is because, until you address the economic imbalance and all the social and other factors that put them down, there won’t be any headway.

“We need affirmative legal action. If it is constitutional, fine. If it is by any other legislation, fine. But we need something. That is why I am fully in support of the reserved seats bill. When we resume plenary, I am going to take it up with the leadership. They already know I am a key supporter,” stated the senator.

Mr Dickson restated the need for women’s voices to be heard, adding that there needed to  be more women in governance, whether by appointment, nomination or election.

“So if the bill is passed early, then we can begin to see the benefits in the next election. I want to have women on the table. Even if it is through nomination, what matters is that women are represented,” he said.

The lawmaker said his party, NDC, is committed to ensuring that women are given equal opportunities to contest for all elective offices, including the presidency.

“We want women to be as free as men. Women are free to represent for every position. That’s the position of the NDC,” Mr Dickson stated.

(NAN)