Federal Gov’t Introduces Gender Desk, Empowers Women

Federal government has launched a Gender Desk Network (WoN), signalling a renewed commitment to gender equity and inclusive leadership within the public sector.

The official unveiling took place on April 25, 2025, in Abuja.

Executive chairman of FIRS, Zacch Adedeji, who also serves as Patron of the Women Network, described the initiative as a strategic move toward mainstreaming gender equity in the Service’s policies, operations, and internal culture.

“This launch is not ceremonial; it is an affirmation of our responsibility to lead by example. We must embed gender equity into every policy, every system, and every process,” Adedeji said.

The move aligns with Nigeria’s National Gender Policy, the Sustainable Development Goals — particularly SDGs 5, 8, and 17 — and other global commitments to gender inclusion.

Adedeji stressed that gender equality should be seen as both a constitutional right and a critical pillar for effective governance and institutional performance.

Special Adviser on Communications and Advocacy to the executive chairman, Collins Osagie Omokaro, said the FIRS is working with relevant Ministries and the Corporate Affairs Commission to define women-led and women-owned businesses, which is key to developing inclusive economic policies.

The Women Network aims to promote mentorship, professional development, and leadership opportunities for women at all levels of the organization.

Adedeji challenged staff and leadership to collectively pursue the UNDP Global Gender Equality Seal, positioning the Service as a model for gender-inclusive reform on the continent.

“True service demands not only excellence but fairness, ensuring that every voice is heard and every potential is realised,” he said.

With this initiative, joins a growing list of public institutions taking deliberate steps to ensure no one is left behind.