Minister of Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, stresses the need for partnership between her ministry, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and other organizations to foster an inclusive and equitable society.
Kennedy-Ohanenye made this statement during a significant multisectoral meeting addressing women and girls programming in Nigeria, held in Abuja on Friday.
The event, co-organized by UNDP and UN Women at the request of the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, highlights the collective commitment to advancing gender equality and empowerment initiatives in the nation.
The meeting is an opportunity to collaborate, inspire, and drive positive change for women and the girl-child in Nigeria. “Together, I am confident that we can generate innovative solutions and chart a course towards a more inclusive and equitable society,” said Kennedy-Ohanenye.
According to her, “I am particularly pleased that this meeting will provide a platform for direct engagement between stakeholders and the Ministry.
“Your insights, expertise, and perspectives are invaluable as we work together to develop strategies and initiatives that will drive meaningful change in the lives of women and girls across Nigeria.’’
The minister explained that the meeting represented a crucial juncture in the ongoing efforts to advance the rights and opportunities of women and girls in society.
She said: “Your presence underscores the collective commitment to addressing the challenges and barriers that hinder gender equality and women’s empowerment.
“Our meeting today is not merely a gathering of minds; it is a testament to the Renewed Hope Initiative’s commitment to catalyze positive change in the lives of women and girls across our nation.
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“This is an opportunity for an in-depth understanding of the ministry’s work, and will also allow the ministry to learn about the work and initiatives of partners in the various thematic areas covered by the ministry’s mandate’’.
Onyinye Ndubuisi, Gender, and Human Rights Programme Lead, UNDP, stressed the need for the agency and the ministry to work collectively, seal partnerships, and streamline projections toward a new beginning for women and girls.
Also speaking, the Lead Economic Empowerment at the UN Women, Dr Chukwuemeka Onyimadu, expressed appreciation to the minister and stakeholders for the meeting, citing the need for progressive advancement in gender issues.
“We will deepen this partnership agenda by working with the ministry and other stakeholders to get things done’’.
The meeting brought together donors, development partners, civil society organizations, and knowledge-based stakeholders to discuss issues relevant to the ministry’s mandate.
NAN
