UN Women Urges Nigeria to Turn Gender Equality Policies into Concrete Action
UN Women has called on the Nigerian government to move beyond policy commitments and take concrete action to protect women’s rights, ensure justice for survivors of gender-based violence, and promote inclusive development.
The call was made by Beatrice Eyong, Country Representative of UN Women to Nigeria and the ECOWAS region, during a press conference in Abuja ahead of the 2026 International Women’s Day, themed “Rights, Justice, Action for All Women & Girls.”
Rising Gender-Based Violence
Eyong raised concerns over the high rate of gender-based violence (GBV) in Nigeria, noting that the situation is worsening due to technology-facilitated abuse online and the limited access to justice for survivors in many communities.
She also highlighted the low level of women’s representation in governance, revealing that women currently occupy just 3.9 percent of parliamentary seats in Nigeria—one of the lowest rates globally.
According to her, the imbalance continues to undermine inclusive decision-making and slows the country’s social, economic, and political progress.
Call for Urgent Reforms
Eyong described gender inequality as one of the most pressing human rights challenges facing Nigeria and warned that failing to address it could hinder sustainable development and peace.
She urged the government, civil society groups, private sector actors and traditional leaders to accelerate reforms and investments aimed at dismantling barriers limiting women’s participation and opportunities.
“Policies exist, but financing, enforcement and sustainability remain the challenge,” Eyong said.
“Securing justice and rights for women strengthens Nigeria’s stability, prosperity and future.”
UN Women Initiatives
She noted that UN Women is supporting key reforms, including advocacy for the Special Seats for Women Bill, constitutional changes to improve women’s participation in leadership, and the strengthening of Nigeria’s National Sexual Offender Database.
Eyong also said the organisation is working with traditional and religious leaders to challenge harmful social norms and promote zero tolerance for violence against women, a position championed by António Guterres.
In addition, UN Women is collaborating with financial institutions and private sector partners to unlock funding for women-led businesses and community development initiatives.
Gender-Responsive Budgeting
To ensure sustainable progress, Eyong said UN Women is assisting the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs to institutionalise Gender-Responsive Budgeting at both federal and state levels.
She explained that the initiative prioritises critical areas such as maternal health, girl-child education, women’s safety and economic empowerment.
Role of the Media
Eyong also urged the media to play a stronger role in advancing gender equality by spotlighting women’s achievements, exposing injustices and challenging discriminatory social norms.
“The media has a powerful platform to shape narratives that advance women’s rights and hold institutions accountable,” she said.
“By amplifying survivors’ voices and promoting women’s leadership, the media can help turn ‘Rights, Justice and Action’ into lived realities for every woman and girl in Nigeria.”
