NASS Open Week 2026: IRIAD supports women and people with disabilities on special places bill

The Initiative for Research, Innovation and Advocacy for Development (IRIAD) has urged members of the National Assembly to present a national dialogue at the ongoing Open NASS Week 2026, to pass the bill on special seats for women and persons with disabilities.

Director Princess Hamman-Obels said the bill has the potential to transform political representation in the country.

In a statement issued in Abuja on Tuesday, he said the annual Open Week is a vital platform to promote greater engagement between Parliament and citizens, while encouraging accountability in governance.

He said the legislation would be a historic milestone in promoting gender equality, inclusive representation and a democracy that reflects the voices and aspirations of all Nigerians.

It also called on civil society organizations to participate actively during the Open Week by providing evidence-based recommendations, mobilizing citizens to engage constructively with legislators, and supporting advocacy for reforms that strengthen democratic governance.

Princess highlighted the importance of ongoing civic education, monitoring legislative performance and ensuring that the interests of women, youth, people with disabilities and other marginalized groups remain central to public policy decision-making.

Addressing citizens, he encouraged Nigerians to view the Open Week as an opportunity to meaningfully participate in the legislative process by engaging elected representatives, asking informed questions and demanding accountability.

As the 2027 general elections approach, he urged citizens to reject disinformation, violence, hate speech and political apathy, while embracing peaceful participation, respect for human rights and democratic values.

“Democracy is not a spectator sport; it belongs to every Nigerian and every voice counts,” he said.

He explained that NASS Open Week 2026 served as a reminder that democracy is strongest when institutions remain open, citizens remain engaged, and leaders remain accountable.

Obels added that the initiative provided an opportunity to strengthen the relationship between parliament and the people, promote inclusive governance and advance reforms that will shape Nigeria’s democratic future.

“Nigerians will actively participate in the democratic process, saying: ‘Be present. Speaks. Engage. Hold power to account.

“Together, let us build a Nigeria where every citizen has a voice, every voice counts and democracy truly belongs to the people,” he said.