Lead Advocate of the Reserved Seats for Women’s Bill, Chief Osasu Igbinedion Ogwuche, has described the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu’s endorsement of the legislation as “a decisive and transformative milestone in Nigeria’s democratic journey,” underscoring that the moment stands as proof of what sustained advocacy and principled leadership can achieve.

According to her, the First Lady’s public support “marks a decisive turning point in our national journey toward true inclusion.”

She explained that the endorsement did not emerge from spontaneous political goodwill but from months of deliberate engagement, strategic dialogue, and relentless pressure from women’s groups and allies nationwide.

“After months of persistent engagement, hard truths, and unwavering commitment, we have arrived at a moment that reflects the collective strength of Nigerian women. This endorsement is not just a political affirmation; it is a clear declaration that the future of our democracy must fully recognise the voice, power, and presence of Nigerian women.”

She stressed that the development represents the culmination of years of organising by women at every level of society.

“This moment was not handed to us,” she noted. “It was earned through the resilience of women and allies across this country; people who refused to be silent, who refused to back down, and who understood that inclusion is essential, not optional.”

Chief Igbinedion-Ogwuche extended deep appreciation to Senator Oluremi Tinubu, describing her stance as an important signal to policymakers.

“The First Lady’s support signals that meaningful change is possible when leadership listens, when empathy aligns with courage, and when we commit ourselves to building a nation that leaves no one behind. It shows that progress is within reach when we are unified by purpose and when we recognise that the advancement of women is integral to the advancement of Nigeria.”

She further dedicated the moment to Nigerian women who have consistently pushed for space in governance, despite systemic barriers. “To every woman who marched, who advocated, who kept pushing even when every door seemed shut this moment belongs to you. Your persistence, your courage, and your refusal to give up are the foundation upon which this breakthrough now stands.”

Igbinedion-Ogwuche added that the endorsement should serve as fuel for the final push as the Bill moves through the National Assembly. She emphasised that the Reserved Seats for Women’s Bill represents not just a legislative proposal but a structural intervention designed to unlock the full potential of Nigerian women in political leadership.

According to her, “What we are fighting for is not symbolic representation. We are fighting for meaningful participation. We are fighting for a Nigeria where women sit at the table, shape decisions, influence policy, and help chart the course of our national future. This endorsement brings us significantly closer to that vision.”

She urged all stakeholders lawmakers, civil society, political parties, and community leaders to match the First Lady’s commitment with decisive action, noting that true progress requires collective ownership. “This is our moment to rise to the occasion. Nigeria cannot afford to leave half of its population behind. The path forward is clear, and the time to act is now.”