By Wisdom Agbonta
The Edo State Government through its Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development has collaborated with the West African Network for Peacebuilding (WANEP) on the implementation of the National Action Plan to promote women, peace, and security in the State.
In her speech, the State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Chief Bisi Idaomi Esq., underscored the critical role of the State Action Plan in preventing crises and fostering a society where women and girls can live free from the fear of violence, harassment, and other forms of insecurity.
She stated that by implementing the plan, the State can take proactive steps to address the root causes of insecurity and ensure that women and girls have the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potentials.
Chief Idaomi asserted that the safety and security of women is intricately linked to the stability and well-being of society as a whole. She noted, “A secured home, a secured woman, translate into a secured society.” While appreciating partners’ support and commitments, she reiterated The State Government’s commitment to ensuring that women’s voices are heard, their concerns are addressed, and that they participate fully in decision-making processes.
The National Consultant on Women, Peace, and Security, Amy Oyekunle, while appreciating the Commissioner for the opportunity to discuss the State Action Plan, highlighted the disproportionate impact of peace and security issues on women and girls in Nigeria and the importance of addressing the issues through a multi-sectorial approach. She explained that the Plan aims to promote women’s inclusion, integration, representation, and participation in peace and security issues, emphasizing the need for effective implementation and reporting.
The National Coordinator of WANEP, Dr. Mrs. Bridget Osakwe, while presenting a publication on the guidelines for localization of the implementation of Women, Peace and Security Agenda in Nigeria, to the Commissioner, appreciated the State Government’s commitment towards developing the Plan and pledged to provide comprehensive support to the Edo State Government in developing and implementing the Plan to ensure its effective execution and sustainability.
The Edo State Commissioner of Police, CP. Monday Agbonika commended the State Government’s proactive approach in enacting various laws aimed at improving the lives of citizens. He pledged the unwavering commitment of the Police Force to providing support and collaboration in the implementation of the Plan, appreciating the critical role that effective partnerships play in driving meaningful progress and ensuring the safety and security of residents, particularly women and girls.
The engagement was attended by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs. Joy Ihensekhien and other representatives of WANEP.
