By: Mercy Peter
The National Human Rights Commission has called for actionable measures to foster safe spaces for all women.
The Commission’s Executive Secretary, Mr Tony Ojukwu, made the appeal on the occasion commemorating the 2025 World Women’s Day.
The theme of this year’s women’s day commemoration is Accelerate Action for all women and girls, Rights, Equality and empowerment.
Ojukwu stressed the
historical significance of the day called for proactive steps to ensure that women are protected and enhanced.
He therefore called on legislators to pass all pending gender laws, saying they are essential to enhancing women’s rights.
“As we mark yet another IWD, we need to remember and honor the sacrifice of the 15,000 women who marched in New York City in 1908, advocating for better working conditions and the right to vote. Their legacy inspires our urgent call for change today.
“Awareness creation and advocacy efforts are not sufficient. We need actionable measures to foster safe spaces for all women. Let us stop merely debating women’s rights and take proactive steps to ensure they are protected and enhanced,” he stated.
He reiterated the Commission’s commitment to driving the domestication of the Maputo Protocol, which seeks to create a more equitable society for women.
According to him: “Together, let us strive for a future where every woman in Nigeria—every girl, mother, and leader—can thrive. We must dismantle the barriers that hinder progress through a renewed commitment to uplifting silenced voices, especially those of women.”
Mr. Ojukwu stressed that strong policy advocacy is essential to amplify women’s voices and safeguard their rights.
The Programme Officer of the National Council of Women Societies, Mrs. Nnenna Emedolibe echoed this sentiment, emphasising that while advocacy and awareness are crucial, they must be complemented by concrete actions.
She called for tangible initiatives, including legislation, community support programmes, and training workshops.
“These measures are vital in ensuring that women feel secure and empowered in their environments,” she said.
Similarly, the National Vice President of Women in Mining Nigeria, Mrs. Regina Edzuwah, commended the Human Rights Commission for its role in championing women’s rights.
She highlighted the importance of empowering women across different sectors, advocating for equal opportunities, and addressing gender-based violence.
Mrs. Edzuwah further stressed that continuous collaboration between organizations and the Commission is necessary to advance women’s rights and foster a more inclusive society.
