Abuja: Government officials, international partners, and policy experts have emphasized the need for robust measures to safeguard women’s rights and enhance their participation in governance and peacebuilding efforts.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, this call to action was made during a one-day dialogue held in Abuja on Wednesday to mark the 2026 International Women’s Day celebration. The event, themed ‘Women’s Rights and Justice-Taking Action for Sustainable Peace,’ was organized by the Strengthening Peace and Resilience in Nigeria (SPRiNG) in collaboration with the Federal Ministries of Justice, Women Affairs, and the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDs).
Mr. Chris Okeke, Governance Team Lead at the Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office, highlighted that sustainable peace is unattainable without the inclusion of women and girls. He noted that the theme of this year’s celebration mirrors Nigeria’s current realities, where rights without justice lack credibility, and justice without action has minimal impact. Okeke stressed that excluding women and girls from decision-making processes undermines peace and development, especially in conflict-affected communities.
Mr. Lateef Fagbemi, the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, emphasized the link between sustainable peace, social stability, and the protection of women’s rights. Represented by Ms. Yewande Gbola-Awopetu, Head of the Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Response Unit, he acknowledged Nigeria’s efforts in strengthening legal frameworks to protect women and girls. However, he pointed out that the existence of laws alone is insufficient without proper implementation.
Ukoha Ukiwo, Team Lead of the Strengthening Peace and Resilience in Nigeria Programme, explained that the initiative, funded by the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, aims to reinforce peacebuilding, security, and resilience across Nigeria. Operating at both federal and state levels, particularly in North-West and North-Central Nigeria, the program collaborates with government institutions and civil society groups to tackle insecurity drivers.
Prof. Abubakar Sulaiman, Director-General of NILDS, emphasized that addressing security and development issues requires women’s inclusion in decision-making processes. Represented by Dr. Emily Ikhide, Head of the Gender and Inclusivity Unit at NILDS, Sulaiman noted that women constitute nearly half of Nigeria’s population and should be involved in shaping policies affecting national security and development.
Mr. Jonathan Dangyang, Chief Scribe of Jos South Traditional Council Bukuru, Gyel, acknowledged that through SPRiNG’s efforts, women are now in leadership positions, owning lands and properties among other achievements. Similarly, Chief John Eimonye, the Paramount Ruler of Otukpo Kingdom in Benue, represented by Chief Udeh Adole, highlighted that men have begun empowering women to play significant roles in peacebuilding and leadership.