Buhari promises new deal for youths, women

ABUJA – The All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential candidate, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari , has promised to initiate policies and programmes that will impact positively on the lives of youths and
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women.
The promise is contained in a statement, issued by Malam Garba Shehu, Directorate of Media and [pro_ad_display_adzone id=”10″]Publicity, APC Presidential Campaign Organisation, in Abuja on Thursday.
“Drawing extensively from the information contained in the APC’s manifesto, a Federal Government [pro_ad_display_adzone id=”10″]under the leadership of Buhari promises to offer women and youths in Nigeria a new deal.
“We are firmly committed to the value that women are the backbone of the Nigerian society, especially in our rural communities.
“Therefore, issues that matter to the average Nigerian woman cut across the spectrum of policy areas,[pro_ad_display_adzone id=”10″]such as agriculture, health and education, where their concern for their children are paramount.
“Our policy position for women takes into cognisance the fact that in spite of several rights outlined in the 1999 Constitution, many women do not enjoy the same freedom as men,’’ it said.
The statement named the areas of limitation for women as education, economic empowerment and political participation.
Buhari said no society would make progress where half of the population suffered systemic gender discrimination.
He promised to appoint a minister for Women and Gender in the Office of the President and ensure legal protection for the rights of the girl-child in all areas of life.
The candidate pledged to end all forms of gender discrimination in both public and private sectors and protect equal property and inheritance rights.
“Other policy initiatives that a Buhari administration will enthrone include improving and strengthening support for women and youths’ participation in all sectors of the economy.
“This will be done through training and skill acquisition; developing innovative ways of encouraging women and youths participation among others,’’ the statement said. (NAN)