Nigeria has raised concerns about the reliability of international statistics on femicide in Africa, citing inadequate data collection and reporting mechanisms.

The country expressed its concerns on Thursday during the UN General Assembly’s Third Committee interactive dialogue on the advancement and empowerment of women and girls.

Nigeria said persistent gaps in data collection, conflict and weak monitoring mechanisms complicated efforts to assess gender-related killings across the continent accurately. The delegation stressed that reliable statistics were essential for designing effective policies to prevent violence against women and girls.

It described sexual violence and the killing of women and girls because of their sex as disturbing manifestations of gender inequality.

Nigeria also warned that emerging digital technologies presented new threats to women’s safety and fundamental rights. The delegation said technology must not become an instrument for trafficking, exploitation, violence, abuse or discrimination against women and girls.

It called for greater international cooperation to address the increasingly transnational nature of trafficking.

Nigeria pointed out that no country could effectively combat trafficking in women and girls through isolated national efforts.

The delegation advocated a coordinated, comprehensive and survivor-centred approach involving countries of origin, transit and destination.

It also restated the need for effective investigation and prosecution of perpetrators. Nigeria reaffirmed its commitment to promoting women’s rights, gender equality and sustainable development.

The country aligned itself with the African Group’s position and called for stronger cooperation between governments and relevant international institutions.

(NAN)