The Chairman Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, NiDCOM, Abike Dabiri-Erewa has calls for an end to unconscious bias, and the development and implementation of policies that promote gender equity.
Dabiri-Erewa made the call while delivering a lecture on ‘Mainstreaming Women, Peace and Security Agenda for Enhanced Operations in the Armed Forces of Nigeria’ at the Defence Headquaters Annual Gender Conference 2024 in Abuja, Nigeria.
The NiDCOM Chair said for gender equity in the defence sector to happen, progress must be measured and areas for improvement identified, robust monitoring and evaluation mechanisms must be put in place.
Stressing the vital contributions of women in the Armed Forces and other security agencies, she noted that gender inclusivity is not just a matter of equity and equality but a strategic imperative for national security.
‘Women have always been at the forefront of fostering peace in our communities, and their involvement in security operations is not just a matter of equality, but a
strategic necessity.’
She further called for the empowerment of women within the military structure, noting that their participation is critical in conflict prevention, resolution, and peacebuilding efforts.
‘We must continue to recognise and harness the unique perspectives and skills that women bring to the table. Their involvement is crucial in building the Nigeria of our dreams,’ she added.
Dabiri-Erewa praised the Defence Headquarters for organising the conference and underscored the need to mainstream the Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) agenda across all levels of the armed forces.
‘Incorporating women into security operations leads to more comprehensive and sustainable solutions to the challenges we face as a nation.’ She added
The NiDCOM boss also reiterated the Commission’s commitment to supporting women in the diaspora who contribute to Nigeria’s peace and security efforts globally.
Dabiri-Erewa, however, urged the Armed Forces and other stakeholders to continue their efforts in promoting gend
er equality, noting that NiDCOM stands ready to collaborate on initiatives that will enhance the role of women in security operations both at home and abroad.
‘Together, we can build a safer, more inclusive Nigeria where every citizen, regardless of gender, has a role to play in our nation’s peace and security, ‘ she stressed
Similarly, the Director General Nigerian Institute of Advance Legal Studies, Professor Muhammed Ladan said there is a need for proactive initiative to address socio-cultural barriers to women’s recruitment and to support their retention and promotion in the defence sector.
He noted that ‘the reason why we are promoting gender inclusivity in the Armed Forces of Nigeria is to strengthen the institutional mechanism within the armed forces of Nigeria on women peace and security agenda. Our reasons are one: it is important to promote dialogue, build trust, and build opportunities for peace. And if you’re looking for who can do this, then definitely you can count on women.’
Source: Voice
of Nigeria