The Dorothy Njemanze Foundation has urged the Nigerian government to implement the National Gender Policy across all levels, including sub-national and sectoral policies, as well as international treaties ratified by the country.
Executive Director Dorothy Njemanze made the call on Monday at a press conference in Abuja, where she unveiled a compendium titled “Inclusive Leadership in Nigeria: Sector-Specific Solutions for All.”
The document highlights barriers facing women and persons with disabilities (PWDs) in Nigeria and proposes actionable solutions.
Njemanze emphasized the need to increase public awareness about the challenges women face across sectors and the national losses incurred due to existing gender gaps.
She called for a shift in societal attitudes toward women and their rights, urging gender-sensitive and responsive governance at all levels.
“Pass anti-discriminatory laws, enforce existing ones, and strengthen institutions and legal mechanisms to protect the rights of marginalized groups,” she said, highlighting the necessity for legislative reforms to support women and PWDs.
The foundation also urged the government to pass the five Gender Bills, enhance economic access and empowerment opportunities for women and PWDs, and implement affirmative action in leadership.
Such reforms, Njemanze argued, would level the playing field and foster increased female participation in leadership roles.
“Our goal in compiling this compendium is to provide insight into the barriers hindering women and PWDs from fully participating in society’s development,” Njemanze said.
“We hope it will be a tool for advocacy with both government and the private sector.”
The compendium, Njemanze noted, includes recommendations based on consultations with civil society, reviews of national policies, and input from local and international organizations.
“Each sector-specific analysis provides policy directions and practical measures for addressing gender-based obstacles.
Meanwhile,the Dorothy Njemanze Foundation hopes this document will advance Nigeria’s progress towards gender democracy and social inclusion.
