FENRAD seeks stronger protection, economic empowerment for women, girls

Nkem Ukaegbu, Umuahia

Foundation for Environmental Rights Advocacy and Development (FENRAD) has called for stronger commitment and practical steps toward protecting the rights of women and girls in Nigeria, as the world marks the 2026 International Women’s Day.

In a statement issued on Saturday in Enugu, the Executive Director of the organisation, Comrade Nelson Nnanna Nwafor, said the day offers an opportunity to celebrate the resilience, achievements and vital contributions of women to sustainable development, democracy, peacebuilding and social justice.

The organisation joined the global community in commemorating the annual event, which this year is themed “Rights. Justice. Action. For All Women and Girls.”

According to FENRAD, the theme highlights the urgent need for governments, institutions and societies to move beyond rhetoric and adopt concrete measures that will guarantee equal rights, protection and opportunities for women and girls everywhere.

The group noted that despite decades of advocacy and some progress in gender equality, millions of women and girls, particularly in developing countries such as Nigeria, still face systemic barriers including gender-based violence, economic exclusion, limited access to education and underrepresentation in political and decision-making positions.

FENRAD stressed that women continue to play critical roles in environmental stewardship, community resilience and social transformation across the country.
However, the organisation observed that women are disproportionately affected by climate change, environmental degradation, poverty and insecurity.

“In many rural and urban communities, women bear the heavy responsibility of sustaining household livelihoods in the face of shrinking environmental resources and weak social protection systems,” the statement noted.

The organisation therefore called on the Federal Government, state governments, policymakers, civil society organisations and development partners to intensify efforts toward gender-responsive governance and inclusive development.

It recommended stronger legal protections against gender-based violence, expansion of economic empowerment programmes for women, and the promotion of equal participation of women in governance and policy-making processes.

FENRAD also emphasised the need to improve women’s access to education, healthcare and environmental resources, noting that these are essential for achieving sustainable development and social stability.

The organisation further urged authorities to strengthen institutional frameworks that promote women’s participation in climate action, environmental governance and sustainable development initiatives.

According to the group, empowering women in these sectors is not only a matter of justice but also a strategic necessity for long-term economic growth and societal progress.

“As a civil society organisation committed to environmental rights, accountability and social justice, FENRAD remains dedicated to advocating policies and programmes that protect the dignity, rights and welfare of women and girls,” the statement added.

The organisation said it would continue to collaborate with communities, partners and stakeholders to amplify women’s voices and strengthen civic spaces that promote gender equality and environmental sustainability.

FENRAD also used the occasion to celebrate the courage, leadership and sacrifices of women across Nigeria and around the world who continue to champion peace, justice and development despite numerous challenges.

The group urged all stakeholders to translate commitments into measurable actions that will ensure a future where every woman and girl can live with dignity, equality and opportunity.