Abuja: UK-funded programme, Strengthening Peace and Resilience in Nigeria (SPRiNG Programme), has collaborated with the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to launch its Gender Policy 2 for the period 2026-2030. Dr. Ukoha Okiwo, Team Leader of the SPRiNG Programme, emphasized the initiative’s commitment to reinforcing governmental institutions, security agencies, and community actors engaged in peacebuilding and security.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Okiwo highlighted the programme’s aim to enhance the capacity of government institutions to deliver services in an inclusive, participatory, transparent, accountable, and effective manner. He noted that such improvements would bolster public confidence and encourage partnerships between the public and these institutions. Additionally, Okiwo stressed the importance of the programme’s focus on promoting the participation of women, youths, persons with disabilities, and minorities in all spheres of life, particularly in peacebuilding and governance.
Ms. Gill Lever, Deputy High Commissioner of the British High Commission in Abuja, commended NSCDC’s leadership for its dedication to gender responsiveness. She noted that the revised policy is evidence-based and inclusive, addressing technology-facilitated gender-based violence, disability inclusion, and gender-responsive budgeting and accountability. Lever underscored the necessity for strong leadership, adequate resources, continuous learning, and collective accountability to ensure the policy’s success.
Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, Minister of Interior, represented by NSCDC’s Commandant General, Prof. Ahmed Audi, highlighted the NSCDC’s pioneering role in championing the first gender policy in the country. He acknowledged the need for a revised policy to address identified gaps and praised SPRiNG for its support. The Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim, represented by Director Ms. Ola Erinfolami, also lauded the policy’s focus on preventing sexual and gender-based violence and promoting women’s participation in decision-making.