We are committed to gender equality in workplace – FG

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting initiatives aimed at promoting gender equality and empowering women in workplace policy.

This pledge was made on Monday in Abuja at a high-level stakeholders’ advocacy meeting on the validated Nigeria Workplace Gender Policy, organised by the Ministry of Labour and Employment in collaboration with the Ministry of Women Affairs and Oxfam Nigeria.

The meeting sought to raise awareness of the workplace gender policy among federal ministries and ensure its smooth passage at the Federal Executive Council (FEC), with the ultimate goal of creating a safe and inclusive work environment for all Nigerians.

The Minister of Women Affairs, Mrs Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, represented by the Director of Gender Affairs, Mr Adamu Ismaila Web, noted the importance of the policy in fostering gender equality in workplaces across Nigeria.

“The Federal Ministry of Women Affairs remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote gender equality and empower women, particularly in relation to this critical workplace policy,” she said.

The minister said that the policy represents a significant milestone in advancing gender equality and social inclusion in workplaces.
She expressed optimism that, with the active participation of stakeholders, the initiative would lead to safer work environments free from harassment.

The Director of Inspectorate at the Ministry of Labour and Employment, Mrs Olaolu Olaitan, noted the importance of gender equality in unlocking the skills and perspectives of both men and women.

“When we avoid gender discrimination in the workplace, we can increase productivity and alleviate conflicts,” she said.

In her remarks, Oxfam in Nigeria’s Programme Manager for Gender Justice, Helen Akinyemi, emphasised the need for collaborative efforts to ensure the successful approval and implementation of the policy.

She called for continued support from ministries and development partners to achieve a future where workplaces are inclusive and gender-neutral.

In his goodwill message, the President of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), Comrade Festus Osifor, said the validated National Workplace Gender Policy marks a significant milestone in the collective journey towards achieving these goals.

“We pledge our support and solidarity in implementing this policy, ensuring that our workplaces become beacons of equality, where every individual can thrive regardless of gender. Together, let us foster a culture of mutual respect, understanding, and empowerment,” he said.