Odimmegwa Johnpeter/Abuja
The Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Dr. Tony Ojukwu, SAN has stated that the issue of respect for the rights of women is imperative to the progress, development, and prosperity of any nation. Ojukwu stated this in a speech during the Commemorating International Women’s Day 2025 in Abuja.
His words: “As we gather today to commemorate International Women’s Day 2025, we find ourselves motivated by this year’s theme, “Accelerate Action.” “For all women and girls, Rights, Equality and Empowerment”. At our current pace, we are caught up by the World Economic Forum, (WEF) Global, gender gap report 2022 which projected that gender parity may not be achieved for a further 132 years.This staggering statistics should be a grave concern to all well meaning people all over the world. The issue of respect for the rights of women is imperative to the progress, development, and prosperity of any nation.
“As we mark yet another IWD, we need to remember and honour the sacrifice of the 15,000 women who marched in New York City in 1908, advocating for better working conditions and the right to vote of women. Their legacy inspires our urgent call for change today.
“It is obvious, despite efforts by the Nigerian government and other actors in the industry to promote laws, policies that support inclusion and safeguard of women’s rights in the past, there is still a wide gap between policy and implementation, making Nigerians journey toward gender equality a mere falacy especially with the notable decrease in women’s political representation and governance with each election year , thereby shutting women out of positions where major decisions are taken concerning their welfare and well being!! Thus, the 35% affirmative action is gradually becoming a difficult task to achieve for Nigerian women and a mere mirage. Nonetheless, we cannot ignore some laudable initiatives by the present government to alleviating poverty amongst women one of such is the ‘trader money which upgraded the businesses of alot of our market women across the country!we also applaud the efforts and leadership of some state governments especially Kwara State in promoting women’s rights by appointing a substantial number of them to appointive positions in governance, thereby enhancing our democracy.
“The Commission has, over the years, supported women empowerment through our sustained collaboration with partners. It is instructive to note that empowerment remains a crucial step toward a more equitable society and must not be overlooked. Notable among interventions of the commissions in the protection of the rights of women , include several SGBV panels across the states and the FCT in a bid to hold perpetrators of SGBV accountable This is in addition to our day-to-day complaint treatment processes. The Commission has promoted several gender-related matters showcased on national television, including “The Silent Prejudice,” a film discouraging the Osu caste system on AIT. Additionally, we carry out yearly 16 Days of Activism across the country to combat the ills of SGBV. We have also organized a number of press conferences to promote gender mainstreaming in all aspects of life. The Commission notes that its awareness and reporting mechanisms have improved, creating an environment where women feel safe to speak out. It is instructive to recognize that addressing gender-based violence (GBV) can not be overemphasized. We must maintain our sustained efforts to address it holistically.
“The Commission uses this opportunity to urge the legislators to pass all the outstanding gender laws before them to enhance women’s rights. We also use this medium to urge stakeholders, including filmmakers, musicians, content creators, religious leaders, and traditional leaders, to challenge stereotypes and promote equality and inclusion through their works! Awareness creation and advocacy efforts are not sufficient , we need actionable measures to foster safe spaces for all women. Let us all stop merely debating about women having rights and begin to take proactive steps to ensure that those rights are enhanced and protected!!
“While we celebrate our achievements, we must acknowledge that these are merely the beginning. Strong policy advocacy is needed to ensure that women’s voices are amplified and their rights are protected. The Commission is at the forefront of galvanizing stakeholders for the domestication of the Maputo Protocol, aimed at creating a more equitable egalitarian society for women.
“Together, let us strive for a future where every woman in Nigeria; every girl, mother, and leader can thrive. We must dismantle the barriers that hinder progress through our renewed commitment to uplift silenced voices, especially women.
Our collective action taken today will lay the groundwork for a future that honours the invaluable contributions of women in Nigeria. I thank you all for your commitment and belief in the transformative power of women. Let us make 2025 a turning point in our pursuit of gender equality”, he slso added.
There were goodwill messages from the Ministry of Women Affairs, FIDA, NCWS, and Women in mining in Nigeria.
One of the major highlights of the event was the reading of the profile of Women Activists, which include: Sa’ada Mahdi, Secretary General of WRAPA, Yeye Bunmi Dipo-Salami, Executive Director, BOABAB, Ene Ede, Gender Specialist, Dr. Uju Agomoh, Founder/Director, PRAWA, Prof. Joy Ezilo, Professor of Law and Activist, Engr. Dr. Mrs. Janet Febisola Adeyemi, President, WIMIN.
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