By Nnasom David

Stakeholders have made a resounding call for gender parity, women’s rights, and empowerment in Nigeria.

The stakeholders made the call during a conference, themed “Breaking Barriers: Advancing Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment,” held in Abuja.

The conference is organized by the Center for Peace Advocacy and Sustainable Development (CEPASD) with the support from the Government of Ireland International Development Programme through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Embassy of Ireland Nigeria

Igweshi Augustine, Executive Director of CEPASD, delivered a powerful project overview, highlighting the organization’s work in combating gender-based violence (GBV) and promoting women’s empowerment.

 “Today, we unite not only to discuss but to reaffirm our collective commitment to advancing the rights of women and girls, ensuring they have equal opportunities to thrive in all aspects of society,” Augustine stated,

He further emphasized the project’s focus on Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) reduction.

Augustine detailed the project’s achievements, noting, “This project has been instrumental in transforming lives, fostering resilience, and breaking the cycle of gender-based violence while promoting gender equality and SRHR.” He also pointed to the importance of reaching marginalized communities, a key focus of their work.

Augustine called for expanded support from government agencies, civil society organizations, and international partners. “Let us move beyond discussions and commit to actionable steps that will accelerate gender equality,” he urged.

Stakeholders stressed that gender equality is not just a moral imperative, but a fundamental requirement for national development.

Lydia Odej, CEPASD Board Member, articulated this sentiment, stating, “If 50% of our population is not thriving, Nigeria is not doing well.”

 Odej emphasized the necessity for cultural reorientation and collective action to dismantle the structural oppression of women.

The conference highlighted the tangible impact of CEPASD’s initiatives, including the empowerment of young women, the training of Anti-GBV Ambassadors, and community sensitization campaigns.

The conference served as a platform for stakeholders to demand concrete actions and policies that promote gender parity and women’s empowerment.

Participants emphasized the need for collaboration and sustained efforts to create a society where women can fully realize their potential.