Group seeks involvement of women in peace building

The Interfaith Dialogue Forum for Peace (IDFP) has urged Federal Government to implement United Nations Resolution 1325 to involve women in the prevention and resolution of conflicts and ensure they participate in peacebuilding in the country.

IDFP stressed the need to promote and prioritise gender equality and women’s rights to achieve sustainable peace in Nigeria and the world at large.

In a statement issued after a “webinar” meeting themed “Insecurity and COVID 19; expectations and contributions of women to promote sustainable peace in Nigeria”, IDFP implored the government to tackle gender stereotypes “that often underpin the culture of violence and inequality in the country.”

The group, which examined the critical contributions of women to the promotion of sustainable peace in Nigeria, advised that more women should be engaged in peace processes, not just at the middle or end of the discussions but from the very beginning of the processes.

According to IDFP, it is imperative for government to develop policies that promote gender equality and empowerment of women, including financial support.

“Women and girls should be well empowered through education to reduce illiteracy. Government should provide skills acquisition training for them to enhance their business management skills, self-confidence, and participation in leadership.

“Government should grant micro-loans to women to join forces together to improve the quality of their lives. The authorities need to improve on the provision of electricity and other basic amenities to aid small-scale businesses and boost the nation’s economy.

“Women organisations should build and encourage networks at the grassroots level because their impact can be most visible in their various communities. Government should provide road and rail infrastructure to aid movement, as these can check kidnapping and other crimes,” the group said.

Co-Chairmen of IDFP, Alhaji Kunle Sanni Ishaq and Bishop Sunday Onuoha, were among participants at the meeting.