EU Champions Gender Equality, Disability Rights For Sustainable Growth

The European Union (EU) has stated that the rights of women, children, and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) are central to sustainable societies, as no society can develop economically, politically, or socially when half of its population is marginalised.

It noted that while women represent more than half of Nigeria’s population, achieving lasting solutions to issues around women’s empowerment can only be achieved if women are at the decision making table.

The EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Gautier Mignot disclosed this during the second annual conference of Commissioners of State Ministries of Women Affairs, in commemoration of this year’s International Women’s Day.

Mignot further stated that, for Nigeria, being the largest democracy in Africa, women’s inclusion is crucial to the progress of women on the continent and beyond.

“As we begin the International Women’s Month, it is important that we continue to reflect on ways to advance improved protection, access to justice, and representation of women and vulnerable groups at all levels.

“It is no secret that societal barriers place women and vulnerable groups at increased risk of violence, poverty, poorer health outcomes, marginalisation in their communities, and fewer educational and employment opportunities. Such outcomes are not inevitable however, and this is the reason why we have to be deliberate about inclusion.

“This is even more so at the sub-national level, where the government is intended to be closer to the needs and aspirations of the local population and its most disadvantaged citizens.”

In her remarks, Minister for Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, noted that the conference underscores the government’s dedication to advancing the rights, wellbeing, and empowerment of women, children, and PWDs across Nigeria.

Sulaiman-Ibrahim, represented by her Senior Special Advisor on Technical Matters, Princess Jummai Idonije, said, “This gathering not only symbolises our unwavering commitment to inclusive governance, but also serves as a vital platform to align our efforts in accelerating progress towards gender equality and social inclusion at all levels.

“This year’s conference holds special significance as it coincides with the national commemoration of International Women’s Day, under the theme ‘accelerate action.’ It is a moment for deep reflection, renewed commitment, and bold action. The theme challenges us to critically evaluate the effectiveness of our policies and governance structures, ensuring that our collective interventions yield tangible and measurable impact, particularly at the sub-national level.”

Head of Programme for EU-funded Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) Programme, Danladi Plang, disclosed that one of the core objectives of the conference is to promote increased access to justice for vulnerable persons across the country.

“I want to thank the EU for its support for ensuring the rights of women, children, and PWDs. The investment of the EU in this sector will not be in vain. With the support of the EU, we have worked to do a number of things including Child Protection law, Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) law, and law that prohibits discrimination of PWDs,” he said.