The Director General of the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR), Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, has raised concerns over Nigeria’s escalating threats to peace, unity, and sustainable development.
Speaking at a gender and human security conference held in Abuja, Dr. Ochogwu identified key factors such as insecurity, unemployment, poverty, illiteracy, climate change, and gender inequality as major contributors to the nation’s ongoing challenges.
During the conference, organized by the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Women Affairs Secretariat in collaboration with the University of Abuja’s Centre for Gender Security Studies and Youth Advancement, Dr. Ochogwu emphasized the disproportionate impact these issues have on women and girls.
He noted that they are increasingly subjected to oppression, harassment, and gender-based violence, which significantly affects their well-being and limits their socio-economic opportunities.
Dr. Ochogwu highlighted the efforts of the IPCR in promoting gender equality and human security.
He indicated that the institute has been involved in developing the National Action Plan (NAP) on Women, Peace, and Security, a crucial policy document launched in 2021 aimed at addressing the challenges.
He also commended Dr. Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi, the Pioneer Mandate Secretary of the FCT Women Affairs Secretariat, for her commitment to advancing gender equality and women’s empowerment in the region.
In her address, Dr. Benjamins-Laniyi underscored the vital role women play in addressing insecurity and fostering peace.
She called for women to be positioned at the forefront of security interventions, recognizing their unique perspectives and contributions to comprehensive security strategies.
The conference served as a platform to discuss and catalyze action on the pressing issue of gender and human security, with stakeholders emphasizing the need for inclusive strategies that place women at the center of national peacebuilding efforts.