NAWOJ, ActionAid, Global Affairs Canada Drive New Push for Women’s Rights in Nigeria

By Iyojo Ameh

The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) has joined forces with ActionAid, Global Affairs Canada (GAC), and other women-led organizations to launch the Renewed Women’s Voice and Leadership Nigeria (RWVL) Project.

Themed “Consolidating Gains and Strategic Partnerships for Sustained Impact,” the initiative is designed to strengthen Nigerian women’s rights organizations through funding, capacity building, and strategic support.

As part of this landmark project, Global Affairs Canada has signed a five-year agreement with ActionAid Nigeria, committing $15 million Canadian dollars to promote the rights, safety, and leadership of women and girls across Nigeria.

Speaking at the launch, Niri Goyit, Project Manager of Women’s Voice and Leadership, expressed appreciation to the Federal and State Governments for their commitment to women’s empowerment, stressing that “the journey to gender equality begins in our local communities.”

In her remarks, the Deputy Country Director of ActionAid Nigeria, Hajiya Suwaiba Dankabo, underscored the persistent underrepresentation of women in leadership roles in Nigeria. She emphasized inclusivity, calling for special attention to marginalized groups including women living with disabilities, sex workers, and children. She further noted that grant-seeking organizations must ensure these groups are prioritized for equitable distribution of resources.

A statement signed by Dr. Rebecca Bolanle Ukpevo, Vice Chairperson of NAWOJ FCT Chapter, announced the inauguration of the Agile Project Team, which will oversee the RWVL project’s effective implementation over the next five years.

Representing the Canadian High Commissioner, a delegate reaffirmed Canada’s steadfast commitment to advancing women’s rights, strengthening partnerships across Africa, and promoting peace, security, human rights, and accountability. He commended the Nigerian media for its role in spotlighting gender issues, declaring: “When women lead, Nigeria thrives. When Nigeria thrives, we all rise.”

The launch event was attended by key stakeholders, including FCT NAWOJ Chairperson Bassey Ita Ikpang; representatives of ECOWAS; the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs; the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation; UN Women Nigeria; as well as traditional institutions and other partners.