IWD 2026: CISLAC calls for transformative gender reforms

2026-03-08 - 16:37

The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has called for transformative reforms in laws, policies and institutional practices to accelerate the development, protection and full participation of women and girls in Nigeria, warning that recent developments indicate a troubling backsliding on gains previously recorded in advancing women’s rights and inclusion. In a statement issued to commemorate International Women’s Day 2026 and signed by its Executive Director, Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, the organisation noted that although progress has been made over the years in raising awareness on gender equality, structural inequalities, discrimination and limited representation in decision-making spaces continue to undermine the full participation of women in Nigeria’s democratic and development processes. The organisation stressed that Nigeria must move beyond symbolic commitments and adopt deliberate gender transformation, including reforms that address gaps in laws, policies and justice systems affecting women’s rights and opportunities. “Transformative changes in governance, legal frameworks and institutional practices are necessary to accelerate the development of women and girls in Nigeria. Without deliberate gender transformation, the progress we have made over the years risks being eroded,” CISLAC stated. The organisation expressed concern that political parties in Nigeria have not demonstrated sufficient commitment to gender balance and the deliberate inclusion of women in political leadership and decision-making positions. According to CISLAC, the absence of strong affirmative action measures within political party structures continues to restrict women’s access to elective and appointive positions, thereby limiting their influence in shaping public policies and governance. CISLAC further highlighted the economic marginalisation of women, noting that many Nigerian women continue to face what it described as double poverty and exploitation, largely driven by limited access to credit, financial services and broader economic opportunities. “Economic empowerment remains one of the most critical pathways for liberating women from poverty. Ensuring women’s access to credit facilities, productive resources and economic opportunities is essential to achieving inclusive growth and sustainable national development,” the organisation noted. The organisation also expressed deep concern over the continued prevalence of gender-based violence across the country, including violent attacks, kidnappings, harassment and other forms of abuse targeted at women and girls. CISLAC condemned attempts to justify or normalise such violence and called on government authorities and law-enforcement agencies to strengthen accountability mechanisms, ensure the protection of women and girls and guarantee justice for victims. While recognising the resilience and contributions of Nigerian women across sectors including governance, business, education, healthcare and community leadership, CISLAC stressed that greater institutional commitment is required to dismantle systemic barriers that continue to limit women’s advancement. The organisation therefore urged government institutions, political parties, civil society organisations and the private sector to work collectively towards transforming policies, strengthening legal protections and creating inclusive economic opportunities that will advance gender equality in Nigeria. CISLAC reaffirmed its commitment to promoting transparency, accountability and inclusive governance while continuing to advocate policies and reforms that ensure the rights, dignity and full participation of women and girls in Nigeria’s development.