First, studies have shown that in fragile and conflict-affected settings, gender-specific interventions positively affect women’s empowerment and gender equality. Thus, interventions, such as asset transfers and cash transfers, should be used to increase women’s access to assets and income.

However, it is crucial to address the lack of trickle-down effects on broader empowerment outcomes, including decision-making processes at household and community levels. This calls for ‘dusting’ and implementation of Women’s Economic Empowerment (WEE) Policy developed by the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) in collaboration with the Nigerian government, to address the barriers to women’s economic empowerment, including patriarchy and lack of access to resources.

Furthermore, initiatives like the Women’s Right to Property Initiative (WRPI) launched in 2017, which seeks to enhance women’s access to land and property through legal reforms and education and has been instrumental in increasing women’s participation in land administration and decision-making processes, should be revived. The YouWin Programme, which has shown promise by enhancing women’s access to land, finance and markets, should be scaled up and replicated across different sectors.

Similarly, implementing scholarship programmes, mentorship initiatives, and vocational training can empower girls and women economically and educationally. These programmes enhance employability and foster a sense of community and collective empowerment. Hence, Public Works and Women/Youth Empowerment Scheme, a programme aimed at empowering women and youth through public works projects, by providing them with economic opportunities and skills development (Federal Government of Nigeria) should be revived.

Also, it is important to address the gender gap in education and the provision of comprehensive reproductive health services. This is against the backdrop that family planning is a critical tool for advancing women’s rights and gender equality in Nigeria because it enables women to control their reproductive health, which empowers them to pursue and complete their education, participate in the workforce and contribute meaningfully to society.


https://guardian.ng/opinion/editorial/beyond-rhetoric-accelerating-action-for-gender-parity-part-2/