ActionAid Nigeria (AAN) has called for urgent investment in women and accelerated progress toward gender equality.
In a statement commemorating the 2025 International Women’s Day, themed “Investing in Women, Accelerating Progress,” AAN emphasized that gender equality is not just a call to action but a fundamental requirement for sustainable development, justice, and equity.
“Women are the backbone of our economy, democracy, and communities. They lead, innovate, and build. Yet, in Nigeria, we continue to witness systemic efforts to stifle women’s participation, particularly in male-dominated spaces. From governance to corporate leadership and civil society, women who challenge the status quo often face intimidation, harassment, and exclusion,” the statement read.
AAN cited the resignation of Mojisola Meranda from the Lagos House of Assembly and the sexual harassment allegations raised by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan as stark reminders of the challenges women face in leadership.
The statement, signed by AAN Country Director Andrew Mamedu, questioned the response of relevant institutions: “These incidents raise urgent questions: Where is the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC)? What role is the Code of Conduct Bureau playing in ensuring accountability and justice? If we are serious about accelerating progress, institutions must work effectively to protect women in leadership from intimidation and harassment.”
Mamedu highlighted the impact of AAN’s initiatives, such as the Women’s Voice and Leadership Project, the Multistakeholder Action on the Prevention of Gender-Based Violence (MAP-GBV) Project, and the Girl-led Research and Action initiative. “These investments do more than uplift women; they create stronger families, healthier communities, and a more inclusive society,” he stated.
AAN stressed that prioritizing women’s rights and empowerment is not just a moral obligation but an economic and social necessity. The organization called on all tiers of government to take decisive action by implementing policies and programs that create real, lasting impacts for women and girls.
“Increased investments in gender-responsive public services are essential to ensuring women have equitable access to land ownership, financial inclusion, and decent work opportunities,” the statement added.
AAN also urged the federal and state governments to strengthen and enforce laws protecting women from gender-based violence, ensure swift and fair judicial processes for survivors, and eliminate barriers to justice.
Mamedu emphasized the need for institutional reforms to address sexual harassment, exploitation, and abuse. “All investigations, especially high-profile cases, must include independent oversight bodies to guarantee fair and transparent processes. Public observation mechanisms should be incorporated to enhance accountability and ensure justice is not only served but seen to be served.”
He further called for strengthened workplace and institutional safeguarding policies to create safe environments for women. “A zero-tolerance approach to sexual harassment and discrimination must be effectively implemented across all sectors, with clear mechanisms for reporting and redress,” he added.
Mamedu urged the presidency to demonstrate stronger commitment through concrete action. “The body language of the presidency must align with the urgent need for gender equality. This includes publicly condemning acts of gender-based violence, holding perpetrators accountable, and ensuring women’s rights are prioritized in national policies and governance.”
He concluded with a message to Nigerian women and girls: “Your voices matter. Your contributions shape the nation. Let us continue to break barriers, challenge discrimination, and demand a future where gender equality is not just an aspiration but a reality.”
