UN Women commended Nigeria for significant strides in implementing the Beijing Platform for Action. Key advancements noted include women’s political engagement and tackling gender-based violence. Concurrently, stakeholders, including UBA and UK Parliament members, are advocating for enhanced representation and legislation supporting women. Initiatives are underway to empower women and address pressing social challenges in preparation for the upcoming CSW69.
Ahead of International Women’s Day on March 8, 2025, UN Women commended Nigeria for its substantial progress in implementing the Beijing Platform for Action. This praise, articulated by UN Women Country Representative Beatrice Eyong, highlighted advancements in women’s political participation, economic empowerment, education, and efforts to combat gender-based violence during a recent consultation in Abuja regarding Nigeria’s Beijing+30 Report Review.
In related developments, the UK Branch of the Commonwealth Parliament Association expressed support for a bill proposing special parliamentary seats for women, coinciding with ongoing constitutional reviews in Nigeria. Additionally, the United Bank for Africa (UBA) has unveiled various initiatives throughout March aimed at empowering women and promoting gender equality, which includes programs addressing social and economic challenges.
A conference recently convened in Abuja addressed the lack of inclusion of women, children, and Persons with Disabilities in national affairs. Participants emphasized the need for reforms to foster gender equity, particularly for marginalized groups. Similarly, the Balm in Gilead Foundation called for greater advocacy to enhance women’s political participation in response to low representation statistics.
Ms. Eyong reiterated UN Women’s commitment to assist Nigeria in accelerating gender-responsive policies, recognizing both the achievements made and the challenges that remain. The review serves as an opportunity to ensure Nigeria’s report for the upcoming CSW69 is comprehensive, inclusive, and aligned with international best practices.
Minister of Women Affairs Mrs. Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim underscored the significance of recognizing progress made over the past thirty years, while emphasizing the need for strategic evaluations to overcome existing challenges to women’s empowerment. A continued push toward recognizing women’s contributions in governance is vital, as highlighted by the Senate’s discussions regarding the proposed bill to ensure representation.
The initiatives launched by UBA, including webinars on pertinent health topics, aim to empower women across Africa through enhanced financial support and knowledge sharing. UBA’s efforts are part of a broader goal to nurture future female leaders and create an environment where women can thrive in various capacities.
Stakeholders expressed a collective responsibility to advocate for women’s engagement in policy-making. The call for effective implementation of gender quota systems and accountability in interventions was emphasized, as leaders called for ongoing collaboration to support women’s rights, particularly in the political domain. Ms. Sulaiman-Ibrahim’s remarks highlight the need for renewed commitment and rigorous evaluations of existing policies to achieve notable outcomes for women’s empowerment in Nigeria.
In summary, Nigeria’s advancements in implementing the Beijing Platform for Action have been recognized at a significant forum, with various stakeholders, including UN Women, advocating for enhanced women’s political participation and empowerment. The efforts from institutions like UBA signify a commitment to elevating women’s roles in society, while ongoing discussions about legislative reforms stress the importance of inclusivity in governance. As Nigeria approaches CSW69, it faces the dual challenge of building on its progress while addressing critical barriers to equality.
Original Source: www.thisdaylive.com
