By Chibuike Nwabuko
Abuja (Sundiata Post) – As the world marks the 2024 International Women’s Day today, FIDA Nigeria has made concerted call upon the Federal Government, institutions, stakeholders, policymakers, civil society organizations and all individuals of goodwill to commit to dismantling all barriers that exclude and oppress women as spotlighted by the United Nations where women are grossly neglected and largely overlooked to pave the way for a more just, equitable, egalitarian and inclusive society for all.
The Country Vice President/National President, FIDA Nigeria, Amina Suzanah Agbaje, (Mrs.) made the call on Friday in a statement made available to Sundiata Post in Abuja.
According to the statement, this year’s
International Women’s Day 2024 with the theme “Invest in women: Accelerate progress,” heightens the call for intentional investment in women and girls in all spheres covering health, their wellbeing and
empowerment,
Sundiata Post recalls that the International Women’s Day which is celebrated annually on the 8th of March has historically been a day set apart to celebrate women globally and their achievements.
In spite of the campaign theme for the 2024 International Women’s Day being “Inspire Inclusion,” FIDA Nigeria is deeply disheartened by the non-inclusion and discrimination of women in critical spheres.
FIDA Nigeria shines a spotlight on the sad reality of women’s continued marginalization
and exclusion.
This exclusion is not only a setback; it is a stain on the fabric of our collective conscience, hindering progress and perpetuating systemic injustice.
In Nigeria with the spate of violent extremism and acts of terrorism further escalating humanitarian crises in emergency context, women and children are highly vulnerable and exposed, suffering the brunt of the crises.
This is because in every conflict setting, gender based violence increases while insecurity is exacerbated and this sorry state of affairs compounds the existing inequalities that women already face on a daily basis.
It is premised on the above and in commemoration of this globally important day that FIDA Nigeria highlights the urgent need for collective action to drive gender parity and address the following areas as
spotlighted by the United Nations where women are grossly neglected and largely overlooked.
Investment in women as a human rights issue: Women’s rights are human rights, yet women are consistently denied access to essential resources, opportunities, and decision-making spaces. This systemic neglect robs women of their dignity and perpetuates a cycle of inequality and injustice.
Prioritize education for women: Females are hugely disenfranchised with respect to educational opportunities and access to same by barriers such as early or forced marriages, poverty, gender based
violence, cultural norms, amongst several other factors thereby contributing to the huge gender gap in education.
End poverty: Women, especially those from marginalized communities, bear the brunt of poverty’s harsh realities. The lack of economic empowerment and access to basic necessities relegates countless women to lives of desperation and destitution.
Implement gender-responsive financing and budgeting: Financial systems are rife with gender biases and discriminatory practices and policies, denying women fair access to capital and resources. Genderresponsive financing is imperative to rectify this injustice and ensure women’s full participation in
economic activities.
Shift to a green economy and care society: Women bear disproportionate burdens from environmental degradation. Yet, their voices are often ignored in discussions on sustainable development and climate
action. It is time to recognize and empower women as key agents of change in building a sustainable future.
Support change drivers: Women activists and leaders courageously champion gender equality and social justice, often at great personal risk. Yet, they face rampant discrimination, violence, and harassment. It
is incumbent upon society to stand in solidarity with these fearless trail blazing advocates and provide them with unwavering support and protection.
FIDA Nigeria makes a concerted call upon the Federal Government, institutions, stakeholders, policymakers, civil society organizations and all individuals of goodwill to heed this urgent call to action.
According to FIDA President, a world that is equitable and inclusive is possible, where our unique differences are valued and celebrated.
Together we can accelerate progress for society when we choose to invest in women, advance equality and inspire inclusion for all! She added.
