The National Human Rights Commission has called for unwavering commitment towards the protection and promotion of women’s rights. The Executive Secretary of the commission, Tony Ojukwu, made the call on Tuesday in Abuja at a dialogue organised by NHRC to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the Maputo Protocol.
The News Agency of Nigeria Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Protocol was adopted by Heads of State and Government of the African Union in Maputo, Mozambique on July 11, 2003. It is a holistic framework for upholding the rights of women and girls in Africa.
Nigeria ratified the Protocol on Dec. 16 2004 but yet to domesticate it in full.
Speaking at the occasion, Ojukwu described the Protocol as a significant milestone in our collective journey toward gender equality and the advancement of women’s rights.’ ”This occasion provides us with a moment of reflection on the global and regional efforts, Nigeria’s unwavering commitment and the pivotal role of the NHRC in promoting and protecting women’s rights, gender equality and women empowerment.
“Globally, we have witnessed remarkable strides in the advancement of women’s rights including the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals and other national human rights instruments and policy frameworks.
”Our world has united in recognising the critical importance of empowering women in fighting poverty, inequalities and diseases and in ensuring peace, security and prosperity” he said.
In Africa, Ojukwu said, the Maputo Protocol stands as a testament to our continent’s dedication to gender equality. He added that nations have come together to champion women’s rights, recognizing that when women thrive, societies prosper.
”As we celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the Maputo Protocol, let us reaffirm our commitment to the advancement of women’s rights. Let us redouble our efforts to eliminate gender-based discrimination, sexual and gender-based violence, promote women’s participation in decision-making, and create an inclusive society where every woman can flourish.
”A good start point will be the domestication of the Maputo Protocol which we celebrate today” he said.
According to him, the protocol has galvanized African nations to enact legislative reforms, challenge harmful practices, and empower women to claim their rightful place in all spheres of life. He added that Nigeria, with its rich cultural tapestry and diverse population, is committed to the cause of women’s rights.
”Our nation’s efforts have been evident in policy reforms, legal advancements, and public awareness campaigns aimed at dismantling gender-based discrimination. While celebrating our modest success, let us acknowledge that huge challenges still lie before us in terms of guaranteeing women’s rights, empowerment and gender equality.
” For instance, women still face marginalization and discrimination in political, cultural, economic and social spheres. In our world today, women still face sexual and gender-based violence in both war and peace times” he said.
Ojukwu stated that at the heart of Nigeria’s commitment is the National Human Rights Commission. He added that ss a beacon of hope and an advocate for justice, the NHRC plays a vital role in consolidating the commitment and progress.
”Through its tireless efforts, the NHRC monitors human rights violations, receives and investigates complaints, creates awareness on human rights and advocates for legal, policy and institutional reforms, and empowers women to claim their rights.
”The commission stands as a guardian of our shared values, ensuring that no woman’s voice goes unheard, no violation goes unchecked, and no progress goes unrealized.
”Through its Women and Children department and working with our national and international partners in various initiatives and programmes, the Commission remains committed in prioritising womens’ rights in our mandate.
”The Commission has used its quasi-judicial powers to establish the first SGBV Panel to investigate and provide justice to survivors of violence” he said
He said that there is also need to establish platforms through which our united voices and efforts will be mobilized to address policy and legal issues impacting on womens’ rights in Nigeria.
The NHRC he said will continue to stand as a steadfast ally in this journey, fostering an environment where the principles of the Maputo Protocol are not merely words on paper, but a living reality for every Nigerian woman.
”We extend our appreciation to all Partners and Stakeholders who have supported our efforts in promoting women’s rights in Nigeria. We call on you not to relent in your efforts in working with us to see to the realization of the full implementation of the Maputo Protocol.
”Together, let us forge ahead with renewed determination, united by the shared vision of a just and equitable world for all” he said (NAN)
