Women’s Group Advocates for Inclusive Security Sector Reforms in Nigeria

By Admin

The National Women’s Platform on Security Sector Reform and Governance has reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing women’s inclusion in Nigeria’s security sector through advocacy, research, and collaboration.

Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja on Friday, Associate Professor Plangsat Dayil, the National Focal Person for the platform, emphasized the importance of amplifying women’s voices in security governance.

“Our mission is to ensure that women’s perspectives shape security sector reforms for a safer and more inclusive society,” Dayil stated.

The National Women’s Platform on Security Sector Reform and Governance was established as part of the “Security for All” project initiated in 2019 by Friedrich Ebert Stiftung, with support from the European Union Delegation in the Central African Republic (CAR).

This initiative led to the creation of the Regional Women’s Platform on Security Sector and Governance, as well as the Civil-Military Relations Group, aimed at increasing women’s representation and influence within security institutions.

Beyond Nigeria, the platform collaborates with organizations in Cameroon, Mali, and Senegal, fostering sub-regional, continental, and international partnerships.

Its core objectives include: Civil-military relations, Climate change and gender issues, Open governance and anti-corruption, Farmer-herder conflict resolution, Governance and development reforms and security and justice sector reforms, particularly in correctional services.

Since its inception, the platform has spearheaded several high-impact initiatives aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s security framework and promoting accountability within the sector.

Despite its successes, Dayil acknowledged ongoing security challenges, emphasizing the need for cross-border collaboration, especially in tackling security threats exacerbated by climate change.

“Borders are porous, and climate change does not need a visa to affect countries. Collaboration is key,” she stated.

During the briefing, discussions also centered on the protection of women in the security sector and the need for gender-sensitive policies.

Addressing concerns about harassment and abuse of women by security personnel, particularly in correctional facilities, Dayil assured that gender sensitivity and accountability are integral to the platform’s training programs.

“We have trained 300 security personnel across the country, equipping them with the knowledge to influence institutional practices,” she said. “While this is a small number compared to the population, their impact is significant, and we continue to track their progress.”

Scaling Up Efforts and Media Collaboration

While recognizing the strides made, Dayil stressed the need to expand the platform’s efforts and called on media organizations to play a role in tracking security reforms.

“We need to scale up our efforts, and we welcome media collaboration in monitoring these issues,” she added.

As the National Women’s Platform on Security Sector Reform and Governance continues its advocacy, capacity-building, and policy engagement, it remains dedicated to fostering a more inclusive and responsive security sector in Nigeria and beyond.