EU rakes bold step towards gender equality in Nigeria

In a significant move toward advancing gender equality and rights in Nigeria, the European Union (EU) has announced its support for state Commissioners for Women Affairs and their Permanent Secretaries. This commitment was revealed by Ms Laolu Olawumi, the EU’s Programme Manager on Democracy, Rule of Law, and Gender, during a two-day conference held in Abuja.

The conference, conducted in collaboration with the International Institute of Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IIDEA), aimed to equip state Commissioners with the necessary technical support to address issues affecting women, children, and other vulnerable groups nationwide.

Ms Olawumi emphasized the timeliness of the event in light of International Women’s Day 2024, stating that the conference marked a significant step toward realizing the theme for 2024, “Inspire Inclusion.”

“The conference structure is designed to furnish the Commissioners with the tools required to effectively confront and resolve rights issues. Moreover, the event serves as a knowledge-sharing forum beyond its primary role of offering technical assistance,” she explained.

The EU’s support encompasses ensuring that planning, budgeting, and implementation processes are inclusive. This strategic approach aims to promote the full participation of women, children, and persons with disabilities, integrating inclusivity into governance and societal development.

Under the leadership of the Minister of Women Affairs, Mrs Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, the conference facilitates a meaningful exchange of insights and strategies among state Women’s Affairs Commissioners, enhancing their ability to advocate for gender equality within their jurisdictions.

The event is part of the second phase of the European Union’s Support to the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC II) programme, implemented by IIDEA and built upon the successes of its preceding phase. Mr Samuela Isopi, the EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, highlighted that the second RoLAC phase aims to sustain momentum and continue supporting the Nigerian government’s objective of strengthening the rule of law.

Speaking on behalf of the Nigerian Commissioners, Mrs Nkechinyere Ugwu from Imo and Mrs Ngozi Felix from Abia commended the EU for this initiative. Mrs Ugwu emphasized the importance of the conference as an opportunity for Commissioners to share experiences and develop practical solutions for their work, focusing on human rights and the protection of vulnerable populations.

Mrs Felix echoed these sentiments, stating that the conference serves as a cornerstone for forging stronger collaborations and innovating policies that directly impact the lives of women and children in Abia. The gathering provides an invaluable platform for learning and exchanging ideas, ultimately transforming them into actionable strategies for gender equality and the empowerment of the most vulnerable in Nigerian society.