The United Nations has underscored the need for Nigeria to prioritise women's empowerment as a driving force for sustainable development. This call to action was made by Ms. Elsie Attafuah, the acting Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator of the UN Nigeria, during the Lions Day with the United Nations ceremony in Abuja. Attafuah, represented by Beatrice Eyong, UN Women Country Representative to Nigeria, highlighted the importance of women's empowerment in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.
Global challenges such as climate change, migration, and gender-based violence have evolved, making it essential to intensify efforts to protect women and children. Attafuah noted that the number of Out-of-School children can be drastically reduced through education, digital connectivity, and other pathways identified by the UN. The centre of these pathways is the recognition that gender equality and women's empowerment are integral to all 17 SDGs.
According to Attafuah, peace, development, and human rights cannot be achieved without women leading and shaping solutions. The UN and Lions International share a deeply aligned mission to advance peace, support education, fight poverty, strengthen health systems, and uplift vulnerable communities.
The UN's emphasis on women's empowerment is long overdue, and it's heartening to see the organisation recognise the critical role women play in driving sustainable development in Nigeria. However, words must be matched with action, and the government must be held accountable for implementing policies that promote women's empowerment. The UN's partnership with Lions International is a step in the right direction, but it's essential to translate these ideals into tangible impact on the ground. With the number of Out-of-School children standing at over 10 million, the government must prioritise education and digital connectivity to reduce this number drastically. By doing so, Nigeria can make significant strides in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.
