In this episode of the Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI) tracker, we spotlight the three out of over one hundred motions which directly addressed equality and inclusion in the 10th senate so far
With over one hundred motions moved between June 2023 and March 2025, only three can be categorized as GESI-focused, addressing the needs and rights of women, girls, and persons with disabilities (PWDs).
This data highlights a troubling pattern of underrepresentation in both numbers and priorities, revealing a glaring gap in legislative attention to GESI.
The 3 GESI motions tracked
1. International Day and Advocacy for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, sponsored by Sen. Ireti Heebah Kingibe (LP, FCT). In solidarity with the global 16 Days of Activism, this motion called for urgent measures to tackle gender-based violence (GBV) in Nigeria. Resolutions included strengthening GBV prosecution, mandating improved hostel safety for female students, and empowering women economically. It also encouraged the development of a national roadmap under the Orange Nigeria Initiative.
- Call for Full Implementation of the Disabilities Act, sponsored by Sen. Osita Izunaso (APC. Imo). Despite the passage of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act in 2018, only 23 out of 36 states have domesticated the law. This motion called on the Federal Government to provide a timeline for full implementation, promote inclusive services in schools and hospitals, and prevent discrimination in public and private spaces. It also pushed for adequate budgetary allocations to support the Nigerian Disability Commission.
- The Plight of the Nigerian Girl-Child: This motion highlighted the dire condition of the Nigerian girl-child and urged the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency on her welfare. With 1 in every 5 out-of-school children globally residing in Nigeria, and girls disproportionately affected by poverty, early marriage, and lack of access to quality education, this motion demanded urgent policy shifts and stronger oversight mechanisms. It was also sponsored by Sen. Ireti Heebah Kingibe (LP, FCT).
Read Also: Lawmakers Propose Youth Development Bills | GESI Tracker
GESI: Why Representation Matters
The underrepresentation of women in the senate is a key factor in the low prioritization of GESI issues. Data globally shows that when women are in parliament, issues like education, healthcare, social protection, and violence prevention receive more legislative attention. These issues risk being sidelined without proportional representation, as is evident in the 10th senate.
The fact that only three GESI-relevant motions have emerged from a legislative body of 109 senators is alarming, especially when set against the backdrop of:
- Only 4 women are currently serving in the senate, representing a mere 3.6 percent of its composition.
- An estimated 30 million persons with disabilities in Nigeria, many of whom face structural and institutional barriers daily.
- Over 10.5 million children out of school, 60 percent of whom are girls, according to UNICEF. It further stated that over 7.6 million girls are missing out on education at the primary and junior secondary levels.
These realities raise questions about the inclusivity of our lawmaking process and whether the most vulnerable voices in Nigeria are properly represented at the highest levels of policy formulation.
Read Also: Advancing Women’s Right through Constitutional Reforms | GESI Tracker
Call to Action
- GESI must become a cross-cutting principle in all legislative debates, not just in motions labeled “women” or “disability.”
- Identify and support both male and female legislators who consistently advocate for GESI issues to act as champions across party lines.
- Motions are not enough. GESI-focused bills need to be passed and implemented to effect real change. It has been observed that most GESI bills are stalled; this has to change, and bills must be passed for inclusivity.
- Political parties should reserve positions for female candidates to ensure gender balance in nominations and promote inclusive representation in elections.
The 10th senate has an opportunity to shift the narrative. But that shift must be intentional, strategic, and urgent. If lawmakers do not legislate for the most vulnerable, then who will?
