The participation of women in politics has long been a contentious issue in Nigeria. Although women constitute roughly 45 % of the population, they remain markedly under‑represented in political and governance structures. This persistent gap has prompted stakeholders to call for greater female involvement and the creation of safe spaces that enable women to ascend to top‑ranking political positions.
The Ninth Assembly, inaugurated on 11 June 2019 by President (Ret.) Muhammadu Buhari, is now winding up its activities. Of the 469 parliamentary seats—109 in the Senate and 360 in the House of Representatives—women hold only 21 seats: eight in the Senate and 13 in the House. On International Women’s Day (8 March), this year’s theme, **#EmbraceEquity**, celebrates women who are “calling the shots” in the Ninth Assembly.
**Oluremi Tinubu** is the wife of President‑elect Bola Tinubu and the senator representing Lagos Central. After serving as First Lady of Lagos State, she entered the Senate in 2011. As chairman of the Senate Committee on Communications, she has sponsored the Criminal Code Act (Amendment) Bill 2019 and the Lagos State Special Economic Assistance Programme (Establishment) Bill 2019, reflecting her focus on youth and Lagos‑state issues.
**Aishatu Dahiru** (known as Binani) is a prominent challenger of political stereotypes. The All Progressive Congress (APC) governorship candidate for Adamawa, she would become Nigeria’s first elected female governor if she wins the 25 March poll. Currently chair of the Senate Committee on Sustainable Development Goals, Dahiru secured the APC ticket with 430 votes, defeating Nuhu Ribadu (288 votes). Her legislative career began in the 7th National Assembly, where she represented Yola North, Yola South, and Girei (2011‑2015) before moving to the Senate.
**Uche Ekwenife** gained a reputation for outspokenness and vigor in the National Assembly. After leaving a banking career as an area manager, she was elected to the House of
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