A Nigerian court has ordered the government to enforce the country's gender policy which stipulates that 35% of appointments in public offices be reserved for women.

Justice Donatus Okorowo's ruling has been hailed by rights campaigners.

Nigerian women groups have been calling for more women representation in political and appointive positions.

Activist Mufuliat Fijabi, who was present during the ruling, told local media that she was happy with the judgement.

This comes as Nigerian lawmakers are expected to vote again on three of the five rejected gender equality bills this week.

Parliament rescinded its decision last month after women groups held protests across the country.