The federal government has inaugurated Nigeria’s Third National Action Plan for the implementation of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security, reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to inclusion, gender equality and sustainable peace.

The NAP III UNSCR 1325, 2024-2028, inaugurated by the first lady, Remi Tinubu, in Abuja, was spearheaded by the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development.

Mrs Tinubu explained that 25 years ago, through the UNSCR 1325, the global community recognised that women should not remain on the sidelines, but be active participants in shaping peace and security.

“Nigeria embraced this vision with the launch of our first and second national action plans. Today, guided by the Renewed Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, which prioritises inclusion, stability, and collective progress, we step forward with our third national action plan.

“While we acknowledge the progress made, we must not overlook the reality still faced by women and girls in communities affected by insecurity.

“In these challenging times, Nigerian women continue to demonstrate extraordinary strength, mediating in conflicts, rebuilding communities, and caring for their families,” stated Mrs Tinubu.

The first lady said the resilience of women reinforced the need to keep the women, peace, and security agenda at the forefront of all national priorities.

She encouraged all stakeholders, especially state governments, to champion the implementation of the action plan with urgency and dedication.

Mrs Tinubu also urged security agencies to intensify gender-sensitive reforms, appealed to traditional and faith leaders to use their influence to protect women and children, and encouraged men and boys to partner to ensure the full implementation of a just and equitable society.

Women affairs minister Imaan Ibrahim-Sulaiman explained that following the global adoption of UNSCR 1325 in 2000, Nigeria domesticated the commitment through the first NAP in 2013 and consolidated early gains with the second NAP in 2017.

“Today’s launch of the NAP III, approved by President Bola Tinubu, aligns these national efforts with contemporary global realities and firmly anchors them with the renewed hope agenda.

“This places women, children, families and our vulnerable groups at the centre of national stability, inclusive governance and sustainable peace,” she said.

(NAN)