by Queen Agba
Head, Human Rights and Governance, CEHRD
Today, on the UN International Day of Women, we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to the development of a Nigerian society where women and girls are empowered to reach their full potential; a society were there is gender equality and everyone has equal opportunity.
This year’s theme, “For all Women and Girls: Rights, Equality and Empowerment” highlights the need to accelerate progress in closing gender gaps, and unlocking equal rights, and opportunities for all.
Despite remarkable strides in Federal and State Laws protecting women and girls in Nigeria; they continue to face systemic barriers, from gender-based violence to wage inequality, underrepresentation in leadership, and limited access to education and healthcare.
Current statistics shows that women occupy less than 10% of all positions in the National Assembly. The road to true equality demands bold action from governments and individuals alike.
The Centre for Environment, Human Rights and Development (CEHRD), calls on the Federal and State Governments to implement extant laws promoting equal opportunities for women and girls. In particular, we urge the government to:
Protect women and girls right by supporting the full implementation of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act. Comprehensive coverage of economic, legal and psycho-social support provided in the VAPP must be implemented through deliberate government planning and budgeting. This will ensure that protections, compensations and punishments within the Law are effective.
Promote laws and policy actions that effectively provide equal access to power and opportunity for everyone irrespective of their gender. Government must address systemic barriers stemming from cultural norms by elevating the voices of women and girls within society vis a vis, their role within public decision making.
Redefine power structures by fostering equal access to leadership, education and employment. Government must prioritize opportunities for women and girls in order to bridge these gaps and provide a level playing field for them to reach their full potential.
CEHRD also stands with grassroots movements, and other change-makers who are tirelessly working for a Nigeria where the outcomes for everyone is just, inclusive and equal.
We, here at CEHRD understands the simple truth: when women rise, societies prosper.
By empowering women, we create resilient societies, drive economic growth; building stronger and better. Gender equality is not just a moral and legal imperative—it is an economic and social necessity.
Today, we celebrate the achievements of every Nigeria woman. Our pledge: to continue to advocate for a Nigeria, where women have equal access to power, their voices are amplified and have equal opportunities.
We therefore call on all meaningful Nigerians to pledge, to commit to a future where no woman is left behind.
#InternationalWomensDay #EmpowerElevateEqualize