EU Partner With Commissioners Over Gender Equality

EU Partner With Commissioners Over Gender Equality

The European Union (EU) and the International Institute of Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IIDEA), in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, are collaborating with state commissioners for women and their permanent secretaries to promote gender equality and women’s rights.

During the opening of a two-day conference in Abuja, EU’s Programme Manager on Democracy, Rule of Law, and Gender, Laolu Olawumi, emphasized that the event aims to offer participants the necessary support to address issues affecting women and children.

The conference is designed to align with the theme of this year’s International Women’s Day, focusing on “drive inclusion.”

She said: “EU’s support includes ensuring that planning, budgeting, and implementation processes are inclusive.

“This strategy promotes the full participation of women, children, and persons with disabilities, integrating inclusivity into governance and societal development.”

Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, announced that President Bola Tinubu would introduce a five-year EU program for Nigerian women later this month.

She stressed the importance of stakeholders collaborating with both federal and state governments to promote inclusivity and justice for women in the country.

Ngozi Felix, the Commissioner for Women Affairs in Abia State, highlighted that the organizers are creating a platform to empower vulnerable individuals in society.

“This gathering is a cornerstone for us to forge stronger collaborations and innovate on policies that impact women and children.

“It is a platform for learning and exchanging ideas to be transformed into strategies for gender equality and empowerment…”

EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Samuela Isopi, underscored the need for a second phase of the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) program to maintain momentum and continue the EU’s support for the Nigerian government’s efforts to strengthen the rule of law in the country.