The United Nations agency for gender equality, UN Women, has urged the Nigerian government to move beyond policy commitments and take decisive steps to protect women’s rights, ensure justice for survivors of gender-based violence, and advance sustainable development.
The call was made by Beatrice Eyong, Country Representative to Nigeria and ECOWAS, during a news conference in Abuja ahead of the 2026 International Women’s Day, themed “Rights, Justice, Action for All Women & Girls.”
Eyong expressed concern over the high prevalence of gender-based violence (GBV) in Nigeria, noting that the problem has been exacerbated by technology-facilitated abuse online and limited access to justice for survivors across communities and court systems nationwide.
She also highlighted the low representation of women in political leadership, stating that women currently hold only 3.9 per cent of parliamentary seats in Nigeria, one of the lowest rates globally. According to her, the situation significantly limits inclusive decision-making and slows the country’s social, economic and political development.
Eyong described persistent gender inequality as one of the most pressing human rights challenges facing Nigeria, warning that failure to address it undermines sustainable development and peace.
She called on government institutions, civil society organisations, private sector actors and traditional leaders to accelerate reforms and investments aimed at dismantling gender barriers. While acknowledging the existence of relevant policies, she stressed that the major challenge remains financing, enforcement and sustainability.
Eyong reaffirmed UN Women’s commitment to working with Nigerian partners to ensure measurable impact, noting that securing justice and rights for women would strengthen the country’s stability, prosperity and future.
She added that the organisation supports legislative efforts such as the Special Seats for Women Bill and advocates constitutional reforms to improve women’s participation in decision-making. UN Women is also backing efforts to strengthen the National Sexual Offender Database.
According to Eyong, the agency is collaborating with traditional and religious leaders to challenge harmful cultural norms and promote zero tolerance for violence against women, a position emphasised by António Guterres.
She further explained that partnerships with financial institutions and the private sector are helping to unlock funding for women-led businesses, community initiatives and women’s involvement in peace and security processes.
To promote long-term impact, UN Women is also supporting the institutionalisation of Gender-Responsive Budgeting with Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Women Affairs at federal and state levels, prioritising maternal health, girl-child education, women’s safety and economic empowerment.
Eyong urged the media to play a stronger role in promoting women’s rights by highlighting women’s achievements, exposing injustice and challenging discriminatory norms. She emphasised that the media’s ability to shape narratives is crucial in advancing the goals of rights, justice and action for women and girls across Nigeria.