At the 2025 International Women’s Day celebration themed “Women and Girls: Rights, Equality, and Empowerment!”, Taiwo Akerele, Technical Adviser at NGCARES and Executive Director of Policy House International, has emphasized the urgent need for decisive policy actions to create a barrier-free society for women.

“How do we accelerate action, and what specific policy and political decisions must be made to achieve true equality?” Akerele asked. He highlighted the stark realities faced by women, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where economic, social, and political barriers persist.

Citing alarming statistics, Akerele pointed out the underrepresentation of women in Nigerian politics, with only two women in the 24-member Edo State House of Assembly, 14 women in the 360-member House of Representatives (3%), and just four female senators out of 109 (3%). “Women’s political participation remains dismally low, with only 20% of political parties fielding female candidates in the 2023 elections,” he noted.

The challenges extend beyond politics. Data shows that as of 2024, over 1,890 schoolgirls had been kidnapped across Nigeria, with 69% of out-of-school children being girls. Gender-based violence remains widespread, with a 2020 UN report documenting 11,200 rape cases—80% involving minors.

In 2023, 33% of women aged 15-49 reported experiencing physical or sexual abuse, with gang rapes accounting for 23% of reported cases. Akerele also called attention to the slow adoption of critical legal protections, noting that only 24 out of 36 states have passed the Child Rights Law. “Why is this still the case?” he asked, stressing the need for legislative action to unlock the full potential of women in Nigeria.

He urged the Ministry of Women Affairs to take stronger action by reinforcing institutional mechanisms for women’s inclusion in governance, advocating for policies that translate into legal frameworks, and building capacity across local government areas to ensure effective policy implementation. He also emphasized the need for better prosecution of gender-based violence cases, increased investment in reproductive health and nutrition programs, and expanded support systems for women in abusive relationships.

“Women must stand together to drive change,” Akerele concluded. “We need stronger policies, better enforcement, and a commitment from all sectors of society to break down barriers.” The event ended with a call for more inclusive governance, ensuring that women and girls can fully realize their rights and potential.