Advocates push for better rights and safety for women in Nigeria

As Nigeria celebrates its 66th independence anniversary, the Women Advocates Research and Documentation Centre (WARDC) is calling for a stronger focus on creating a fair, inclusive, and equal society for women.

In a statement released on Thursday, the Executive Director, Abiola Akiyode-Afolabi, said that the rights and safety of women must be a top priority in Nigeria’s democratic growth.

She also pointed out the need to tackle technology-related abuse and to protect online spaces where women and girls engage in public discussions.

Mrs Akiyode-Afolabi described independence as an “unfinished promise” for many Nigerian women and girls due to ongoing discrimination, gender-based violence, unsafe environments, lack of access to healthcare and education, economic exclusion, and barriers to participation.

“Recent engagements by WARDC have reinforced the need to place women and girls at the centre of conversations about Nigeria’s democratic development and accountability,” she stated.

Digital safety

Mrs Akiyode-Afolabi said women and girls should be free to participate, organize, and lead in digital spaces without fear of cyberstalking, harassment, or abuse.

She emphasized the need for access to information and the proper enforcement of the Freedom of Information Act to enhance government accountability.

“Women cannot effectively demand services, challenge harmful practices, participate in public decision-making or monitor government commitments when relevant information is inaccessible, delayed, or withheld,” she mentioned.

She added that civil society organizations have a key role in using the Freedom of Information framework to demand answers from public institutions, document responses, analyze evidence, advocate for change, seek justice, and follow up on government commitments.

Mrs Akiyode-Afolabi called on governments at all levels, civil society organizations, the private sector, the media, and development partners to collaborate in creating systems that support women and girls.

She concluded by stating that Nigeria’s independence should lead to real freedom, safety, dignity, healthcare, and equal opportunities for all citizens, especially women and girls.