The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has called for comprehensive reforms in Nigeria’s legal, political, and institutional systems to strengthen the protection and advancement of women and girls, warning that recent developments suggest a worrying reversal of earlier gains in women’s rights.
In a statement marking International Women’s Day (IWD) 2026, signed by CISLAC’s Executive Director, Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, the organisation acknowledged that although awareness around gender equality has improved over the years, deep-rooted structural inequalities and discrimination continue to hinder women’s full participation in Nigeria’s democratic and development processes.
CISLAC stressed that the country must move beyond symbolic gestures and adopt deliberate policies that promote genuine gender transformation, particularly in governance, legal frameworks, and institutional practices.
The organisation warned that without targeted reforms addressing gaps in laws, policies, and justice systems, the progress made in advancing women’s rights could gradually be undermined.
It also expressed concern over the limited commitment by political parties to gender inclusion, noting that the absence of effective affirmative action measures continues to restrict women’s access to leadership roles and elective positions.
According to CISLAC, the lack of adequate representation in political and decision-making spaces prevents women from significantly influencing public policy and governance.
The group further highlighted the economic challenges faced by many Nigerian women, describing the situation as a form of “double poverty and exploitation” driven by limited access to credit, financial services, and broader economic opportunities.
CISLAC emphasised that economic empowerment remains critical to lifting women out of poverty, urging authorities to expand women’s access to financial resources, productive assets, and sustainable economic opportunities.
The organisation also raised alarm over the persistent cases of gender-based violence across the country, including kidnappings, harassment, assaults, and other abuses targeting women and girls.
Condemning any attempt to justify or normalise such acts, CISLAC called on government institutions and law enforcement agencies to strengthen accountability measures, ensure the safety of women and girls, and guarantee justice for victims.
While commending Nigerian women for their resilience and contributions in sectors such as governance, education, healthcare, business, and community development, the organisation stressed that stronger institutional commitment is needed to dismantle systemic barriers hindering their advancement.
CISLAC therefore urged government agencies, political parties, civil society organisations, and the private sector to collaborate in advancing inclusive policies, strengthening legal protections, and expanding economic opportunities for women.
The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to promoting transparency, accountability, and inclusive governance while continuing to advocate reforms that protect the rights, dignity, and full participation of women and girls in Nigeria’s development.