When the reserved seats bill is passed…   In every space where Nigerian women have been given a chance, be it sports, business, academia, or global leadership they have not only met expectations, they have exceeded them. Yet, in our political institutions the very heart of decision-making, their presence is minimal.   When the reserved seats for women bill is passed, the Nigerian numbers will tell a good story.  Today, Nigerian women make up less than 5% of all elected positions in the National and State Assemblies. There are 105 male senators and only 4 female senators. In the House of Representatives there are  345 men and only 15 women. In the State Houses of Assembly there are 939men and only 54 women. There are no female representation in 15 states of the houses of assembly in Nigeria.  In total, we have 1462 members of the national assembly with 1389 men making 95.0% and 73 women making 5.0%   When the reserved seats for women bill is passed, the current positioning of men at the national assembly will not be reduced nor affected. If the bill is passed, there will be 1,390 men and 254 women in the national assembly. This number will translate to 105 male senators with 41 female senators, 346 male house of Representatives members with 51 female members and 939 male state house of assemble members with 162 women. This would raise women’s representation to 15.5% nationwide without removing a single existing seat for the men.   When the reserved seats for women is passed, there will be opportunities for women only to contest and more women to seat at the decision-making tables at the national assembly.  Women will be part of  solving  key  national issues like education, health and security. As Rt. Hon Speaker Tajudeen Abbas puts it succinctly that “The presence of more women in legislative chambers is not charity. It is an investment in quality lawmaking” Abass said women bring perspectives on health, education, social welfare, entrepreneurship, community security and conflict resolution.  It  will enhance transparency, broaden representation, promote public trust, unity  and not divide us. Partnership and collaboration will deepen and Nigeria's democracy will be strengthened drawing from the full talent of our population.   When the reserved seats for women bill is passed, the interest of men currently at the national assembly is protected. This Bill will not take not any existing seat, the mandate of every man is protected  and their constituencies are secured. It will only last for 16 years of four election cycles and can then be reviewed. So it is a trial, a bridge to level the playing field so that future generations can compete on equal terms. When the reserved seats for women bill is passed, unborn generations of sons and daughters will be proud of their father for championing reforms. Supporting the Bill is not about giving up power; it is about using influence to strengthen the system for everyone.   When the reserved seats for women bill is passed, Nigeria's image will improve standing on an enviable global standing as the true giant of Africa. Greater representation will translate to better legislation that reflects our diverse perspectives. There will be improved trust between citizens and leaders. When the reserved seats for women bill is passed, Nigeria will be fulfilling its commitments under international agreements like CEDAW and the Maputo Protocol with a stronger, more inclusive democracy where leadership mirrors the people it serves.  Passing the reserved seats for women Bill is a chance to show courage, unity, and foresight as we appeal to men and women legislators across parties and regions to please unite and work together to make this reform a reality. It will cost little, but its rewards will last for generations.   The moment is NOW. The Reserved Seats for Women Bill also known as HB1349 is sponsored by the Deputy Speaker Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, championed by the Rt Hon Speaker Abbas with the support of the 10th National Assembly and acknowledged by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration who have signaled openness to giving women a stronger voice in governance.  Nigerian women are eager to work side by side their male counterparts. We now urge our distinguished legislators to make history by passing the reserved seats for women bill.  For the 10^th national assembly history beckons and generations to come  will remember you for taking the bold step.   Indeed, when women sit at the table, Nigeria’s table will be stronger, steadier, and better balanced for all.