Michael Olugbode in Abuja
The federal government has been asked to evolved actionable strategies to address the issues of economic exclusion and foster inclusive growth for marginalised groups in Nigeria.
The appeal was made in Abuja at the International Women’s Month Economic Empowerment Summit for ASHWAN and Other Marginalised Groups in Nigeria, with the theme: “Inclusive Economic Growth and Development; A Catalyst for Reducing Vulnerability and Poverty Among Marginalized Groups”.
The Summit was organised by the UN Women, in collaboration with UNAIDS, National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), Association of Women Living with HIV (ASWHAN), and other partners.
The spotlight of the event was placed on the often-overlooked issue of exclusion faced by women living with HIV, disabilities, older women, and segments of impoverished youth, and actionable strategies to address the issues of economic exclusion and foster inclusive growth for marginalised groups in Nigeria.
Speaking at the summit, the UN Women Nigeria Country Representative, Ms. Beatrice Eyong, emphasised the importance of collaborative efforts in achieving gender equality and empowering marginalised communities.
She noted: “Inclusion is not just an act of policymaking but rather essential for the survival of the human race. We are working hard to make ‘Leaving No One Behind’ practical.”
Representatives of civil society organisations (CSOs) echoed similar sentiments. Mrs. Esther Hindi, the National Coordinator of ASWHAN, encouraged the need for tailored policies and programmes to address the unique challenges faced by marginalized groups, particularly women living with HIV, women with disabilities, and elderly women.
Executive Director of the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy, and Development, Dr. Otive Igbuzor, in his keynote address, delivered an insightful exposition on the root causes of exclusion, particularly focusing on resource-poor and vulnerable groups.
Igbuzor highlighted the gaps in government policies, including social investment and welfare programmes, and concluded by offering practical strategies and solutions to address these disparities.
The President of the Abuja Chambers of Commerce, in a gesture of solidarity, provided guidance on business and funding opportunities available to the marginalised groups, signalling a commitment to support their empowerment.
In a promising turn of events, government officials and stakeholders present pledged concrete commitments to support ASWHAN and other marginalised groups, including promises of grants and aid.
Through interactive sessions and panel discussions, participants exchanged knowledge, shared best practices, and forged alliances to advance the economic empowerment of vulnerable groups in Nigeria, the National Coordinator, UN Women, Ms. Patience Ekeoba, assured that at the end of the summit, sidelined women will become actively involved in social development.
The event culminated in a motion put forward by the National Coordinator of ASWHAN to establish a “Leaving No One Behind Alliance,” which was unanimously adopted by all participants.
It was agreed that: “This alliance aims to sustain the advocacy for an inclusive agenda that prioritizes the needs of those traditionally left behind, UN Women will serve as the strategic lead partner for this alliance in view of UN women’s ongoing support to the various marginalized groups.
“Moving forward, stakeholders are poised to implement the strategies and recommendations outlined during the summit, ensuring tangible progress towards a more inclusive and equitable society.”
