Beatrice Eyong, the UN Women Representative to Nigeria, stated on Monday that advocating for gender equality doesn’t involve challenging men for their positions.
Speaking at the UN Women Nigeria Media Partners Conference 2023 in Abuja, she clarified that women are seeking equal opportunities for all genders without displacing men from their roles.
Eyong emphasized the theme of the conference, “Escalating media action for women’s empowerment and ending violence against women and girls.”
She urged the media to play a crucial role in ending gender-based violence and promoting women’s empowerment and equality. Eyong highlighted the importance of removing inequalities that hinder individuals from progressing.
According to Eyong, gender inequality has impeded Nigeria’s achievement of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). She stressed the significance of achieving a 35% affirmative action to foster development in Nigeria.
Onyie Agwu, the Enechi Ekuma IV Okposi Kingdom in Ohaozara, Ebonyi State, affirmed the support of Nigeria’s traditional institution for empowering women and combating gender-based violence.
He, as a traditional ruler, expressed solidarity with colleagues across Africa in endorsing efforts to uplift women, alleviate poverty, and address gender-based violence.
The statements from Eyong and Onyie Agwu underscore the collaborative efforts needed across sectors, including traditional institutions, to advance gender equality and empower women in Nigeria.
