IWD-2025-one-champions-women-girls-gender-equity-empowerment
Imagine a world without women, a world where the warmth of a mother’s embrace, the strength of a sister’s resilience, and the brilliance of a daughter’s ambition are absent. A world without the nurturing hands that mold societies, the intellect that fuels innovation, and the compassion that binds families together. Such a world is unimaginable, yet, despite the immeasurable contributions of women, they continue to face systemic barriers, gender-based violence, and unequal opportunities.
We commemorated International Women’s Day (IWD) 2025 under the theme #AccelerateAction. We must reflect on the progress made and, more importantly, the pressing need to advance gender equity and justice at an accelerated pace. It is a moment to reaffirm our commitment to creating an inclusive world where every woman and girl has the opportunity to thrive, lead, and shape the future.
Despite 25 years of uninterrupted democracy in Nigeria, the political landscape remains overwhelmingly male-dominated. The country has yet to elect its first female President, Vice President, or even a State Governor. Women’s representation in the National Assembly is still alarmingly low, with female lawmakers making up only a small fraction of the legislative body. This stark underrepresentation contradicts the spirit of democracy, which thrives on diversity and inclusivity.
One of the most significant efforts to bridge this gap has been the Affirmative Action for at least 35% representation of women in governance positions at both national and state levels. However, this policy remains largely on paper, with little tangible progress toward its full implementation.
Gender parity in leadership and decision-making remains a distant goal, despite overwhelming evidence that societies flourish when women are actively involved in governance and policy making.
While political representation is a crucial aspect of gender equality, the challenges faced by women in Nigeria extend beyond the political sphere. The Gender Parity Index (GPI) continues to highlight disparities in education, employment, and economic empowerment. Women face systemic barriers that limit their access to quality education, economic opportunities, and healthcare. The World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Report consistently ranks Nigeria among the countries with significant gender disparities, further emphasizing the urgency to accelerate action.
Gender-based violence (GBV) remains a pervasive issue. Reports of domestic violence, femicide, and harmful practices like female genital mutilation (FGM) persist at alarming rates. The very women who deserve to be cherished and protected are often subjected to abuse and discrimination. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach, including stricter laws, stronger enforcement mechanisms, and widespread awareness campaigns.
Despite the many challenges, women continue to make significant strides in leadership, governance, business, technology and social activism. From female frontline healthcare workers saving lives during pandemics to grassroots activists fighting against gender-based violence and building technological innovations to solve our real time problems. Nigerian women have demonstrated remarkable courage and determination.
It is imperative that we celebrate and amplify the voices of women who are making a difference. those who are protecting communities, advocating for justice, and leading innovative initiatives. We must recognize the sacrifices and struggles of these resilient women and provide them with the platforms they deserve.
To truly accelerate action, we must create a conducive environment where women and girls can develop their potential and take up leadership roles. This requires:
- We must challenge the existing Cultural and Social Norms: Many gender-based inequalities are rooted in cultural traditions in our communities that have been passed down for generations. It is time to challenge and dismantle these norms that hinder women’s progress while preserving cultural values that promote inclusivity and fairness.
- Access to Education and Digital Skills: We must invest in girl child education, access to digital skills and opportunities for women. Education is the bedrock of empowerment, and when women are educated, entire communities prosper.
- Policy Implementation and Advocacy: Governments at all levels must go beyond mere policy formulation and actively implement gender policy laws in our respective nations. Civil society community must continue to hold policymakers accountable.
- Leadership and Mentorship Support: Women must be encouraged to support and uplift one another. Leadership and mentorship programs can bridge the gap between aspiring female leaders and experienced professionals who can guide them on their journey.
- Community Engagement: Gender equality is not just a women’s issue, it is a societal issue. Men must be active allies in this movement, advocating for the rights and inclusion of women in decision-making processes.
As a ONE Champion and Lead for Smart Aid Initiative, I am deeply committed to accelerating action towards gender equity and justice. Through advocacy, capacity-building, and leadership development programs, I will continue to create opportunities for women and girls to lead and excel. It is not enough to acknowledge the problem, we must actively work toward solutions.
This year’s International Women’s Day should mark a turning point, a moment when we transition from rhetoric to concrete action. We must accelerate progress, break barriers, and build a society where women are no longer sidelined but are at the forefront of decision-making and change.
Let us make 2025 the year of action. A year where we step up our game, dismantle systemic inequalities, and create a future where women and girls have equal opportunities to shine. Let’s accelerate it together!