Jigawa Assembly to Expedite Passage of Diversity and Equity Bill, Pledges Speaker

The Jigawa State House of Assembly is set to fast-track the passage of a crucial diversity, equity, and inclusion bill, a move aimed at fostering a more equitable and inclusive society within the state. Rt. Hon. Haruna Aliyu Dangyatin, the Speaker of the House, made this commitment on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, during an advocacy visit by Dr. Abiola Akinyode Afolabi, Director of the Center for Reproductive Right (CRR), and her team.

Speaker Dangyatin pledged that the bill would be immediately presented on the floor of the House for legislative action, emphasizing the Assembly’s dedication to enacting laws that enhance the social and economic well-being of Jigawa’s populace.

“As being responsible for making laws for the good people of Jigawa State, we are committed to making all laws that will transform, improve and maintain the social and economic lives of the people in the state,” the Speaker stated. He assured that the Assembly would meticulously scrutinize the bill, clause by clause, to ensure it aligns with the religious and traditional values of the people and constitutional provisions.

The bill, described as “more of a private bill,” implying it will be sponsored by an individual member, was initially presented to the Speaker during a retreat in Lagos. Dr. Afolabi, during her visit, reminded the Speaker of the urgency of the legislation, which was co-created by two consultant professors.

While the specific provisions of the bill were not detailed, its overarching goal is expected to promote fairness, equal opportunities, and broader representation across various segments of society, in line with modern principles of inclusive governance. Jigawa State has previously been recognized for its progress in gender equality indicators within the northern region and has enacted significant legislation such as the Violence Against Persons Provisions Bill.

The Speaker welcomed partnerships with national and international organizations to further the development of the state, signaling the Assembly’s open-door policy towards collaborative efforts for societal betterment. The imminent passage of the diversity, equity, and inclusion bill is anticipated to build on Jigawa’s efforts towards a more just and harmonious society.