Abuja Conference Advocates for Women’s Role in FCT Security

Abuja Conference Advocates for Women’s Role in FCT Security

Stakeholders have called for increased participation of women in the development and implementation of security strategies for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The appeal was made on Monday at a two-day conference titled “Gender and Human Security: Focus on Women in the FCT,” organized by the FCT Women Affairs Secretariat and Security Services Department, in collaboration with the Centre for Gender Security Studies and Youth Advancement, University of Abuja.

Dr. Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi, Mandate Secretary of the Women Affairs Secretariat, emphasized that women’s roles in community development extend far beyond the domestic sphere. She stressed that women offer unique perspectives crucial to creating comprehensive security strategies.

“As primary caregivers and community leaders, women have valuable insights into the root causes of insecurity and how to address them effectively. They must be positioned at the forefront of security interventions, with representation in policy-making and their voices shaping legislation and policies,” Benjamins-Laniyi said.

She also advocated for women-led security networks, vigilante groups, and intelligence-gathering platforms, alongside cultural reorientation campaigns to recognize women’s contributions to society.

Prof. Aisha Maikudi, Acting Vice-Chancellor of the University of Abuja, lamented the limited involvement of women in security leadership despite their significant population. She emphasized that the inclusion of women at all levels would benefit the nation tremendously.

Dr. Adamu Gwary, Director of Security Services at the FCTA, highlighted ongoing efforts to integrate women into the FCT’s security framework, describing gender mainstreaming as key to improving security in Nigeria.

Traditional leader Mr. Luka Nizassan, Etsu Kwali, endorsed the involvement of women in security efforts, noting that human security approaches, which consider social and environmental factors, are essential to addressing Nigeria’s security challenges.

UNWomen Country Representative Beatrice Eyong, represented by Mr. Peter Mancha, described the gender-inclusive approach to human security as essential to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, adding that none of these goals could be realized without women’s involvement.