Abuja:The UN Women has emphasized that the lack of access to timely and accurate information is a significant barrier to women’s participation in governance, economic empowerment, and protection from violence, particularly in rural communities.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria, Dr. Suzan Agada, National Programme Officer for Women in Leadership and Decision Making at UN Women Nigeria, discussed these issues at the launch of the Inform Women, Transform Lives Campaign and Community Information and Advocacy Forum organized by the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC). The event was held to mark the International Day for Universal Access to Information.
Agada stressed that access to information is a critical enabler of accountability, citizen participation, and sustainable development. She noted that for women and girls, such access can be transformative, providing opportunities in education, economic activities, political engagement, justice, and protection from violence. Nonetheless, many women, especially in rural and underserved areas, face obstacles in obtaining the information crucial to their lives and livelihoods.
Highlighting the necessity of viewing information access as a gender equality and development imperative, Agada called for investments in systems that promote information sharing, digital innovation, and inclusive communication. She urged stakeholders to focus on strengthening institutional coordination, promoting gender-responsive access to information, and leveraging partnerships and technology to enhance transparency and citizen engagement.
Mr. Christopher Maikalangu, Chairman of AMAC, represented by Vice Chairman Mohammed Nadabo, stated that AMAC would actively promote the campaign in rural communities through traditional leaders and local authorities. The aim is to extend the campaign across the other five area councils in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Mrs. Aisha Yusuf, Divisional Head of Social Welfare and Gender at AMAC, noted that gender-based violence often persists due to silence and ignorance, as many women are unaware of where to seek help. AMAC’s gender unit offers counseling services, but awareness remains low at the grassroots level.
The Programme Manager of Brain Act Ltd., Mr. Wisdom Hanson, mentioned that the one-year campaign, funded by the Carter Center, will employ various media and community engagement strategies to reach women. The campaign will align with observances such as the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, International Youth Day, and International Women’s Day.