By Aaior K. Comfort

The Women Advocates Research and Documentation Centre (WARDC) has called on the Federal Government to expedite the implementation of the National Gender Policy (NGP) 2021-2026, emphasizing the underrepresentation of women in governance. In a statement commemorating Nigeria’s 64th Independence anniversary, the centre highlighted that the country is falling short of its policy targets, with the goal of achieving 50% affirmative action still distant.

WARDC pointed out that women hold only 16.2% of commissioner positions and 11% of local government chairperson roles. The centre also noted that in the recent Edo State election, only one of the 17 governorship candidates was female, with just five women running as deputy governorship candidates.

“There is a need for stronger willpower behind the NGP to ensure women, who make up about 50% of the population, are not left behind. We call on President Bola Tinubu and governors to implement the National Gender Policy,” the statement read.

The centre also expressed concern over the potential repeal of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act 2015, warning that such a move would leave women and girls vulnerable. WARDC advocated for amendments to strengthen the Act rather than its repeal.
By Aaior K. Comfort

Additionally, WARDC urged the National Assembly to revisit the five gender bills that were rejected by the Ninth Assembly, stressing that such rejections undermine Nigeria’s democratic values.

“As Nigeria approaches its 65th year, there are crucial interventions the country must undertake to solidify its standing as the giant of Africa. The country is falling behind the targets outlined in the NGP, with the 50% affirmative action goal still unmet,” WARDC concluded.