The Deputy Spokesperson of the House of Representatives, Rep Philip Agbese has called on the Pan-African Parliament (PAP) to declare the Speaker of Nigeria’s House of Reps. Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, as the African Champion for Gender Equality.
Agbese, who represented the Speaker at the Pretoria retreat, made the passionate appeal in a telephone chat with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Saturday following a high-level retreat of PAP in Pretoria, South Africa.
He urged the PAP Committee on Gender, Family, Youth and Persons with Disabilities to acknowledge Abbas’s contributions to gender justice by bestowing the continental honour on him.
According to Agbese, Abbas has shown consistent leadership in championing gender-sensitive legislation and promoting inclusivity within the Nigerian parliament.
He noted that Abbas’s legislative track record speaks volumes about his commitment to justice, fairness, and equal opportunity for all genders.
The retreat in Pretoria was convened to finalise and review the Model Law on Gender Equality and Equity in Africa. It gathered lawmakers, legal experts, youth leaders, consultants, and international stakeholders to shape what is being described as one of Africa’s most comprehensive frameworks for gender equity.
Agbese highlighted that Abbas’s support for gender-focused reforms has inspired confidence in Nigeria’s position as a frontrunner in continental gender advocacy.
He stressed that such visionary leadership should not go unrecognised, especially at a time when Africa is seeking exemplary models of gender-inclusive governance.
He described the Pretoria retreat as a historic moment in Africa’s legislative journey, noting that it offered a critical opportunity to enshrine the rights and dignity of women, girls, and vulnerable populations through law.
Agbese argued that Abbas’s voice has consistently echoed the aspirations of African women and youth, adding that his personal dedication to gender equality goes beyond rhetoric and is reflected in the bills, motions, and debates he leads in Nigeria’s House of Representatives.
He said the Pan-African Parliament has a unique opportunity to celebrate one of its own by endorsing Abbas as a symbol of gender advocacy, reinforcing the importance of leadership that translates commitment into action.
According to him, Abbas represents a new era of legislative leadership where inclusiveness is not only policy but a core political value.
“He is a rare figure who not only understands the issues but is unafraid to act on them,” Agbese declared.
He added that under Abbas’s leadership, the Nigerian House has become more responsive to the realities of women, youth, and persons with disabilities, key groups often sidelined in political discourse across the continent.
Agbese further stated that the Speaker’s support for gender parity has also encouraged the participation of more women in legislative and oversight functions, strengthening Nigeria’s democratic institutions and ensuring more balanced representation.
He concluded by noting that designating Abbas as Africa’s Champion for Gender Equality would serve as both a recognition and an encouragement for other leaders to follow suit in promoting inclusive governance across the continent.
The PAP Committee is now expected to review the recommendation, which, if accepted, would mark a defining moment in African legislative history and affirm Nigeria’s leadership in advancing gender justice and equity.
He said, “In championing Abbas for the honour, the Nigerian House of Reps not only commends his individual leadership but signals a broader national commitment to the ideals of fairness, justice, and equal opportunity for all Africans.”