Dabiri-Erewa harps on gender inclusivity in armed forces

Gender inclusivity is vital in promoting operational effectiveness in the armed forces, Mrs Abike Dabiri-Erewa, the Chairman of the Nigerians in the Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), has said.

Dabiri-Erewa made this known at the Defence Headquarters Annual Gender Conference on Thursday in Abuja.

She said “gender equity is key because in a gender inclusive environment, it would enable effective approach to work for both men and women especially in the armed forces.

“The theme — Mainstreaming Women, Peace, and Security Agenda for Enhanced Operational — is critical to the evolving nature of our military operations, and the broader goals of peace and security in our nation.

“I salute the enormous work done by the armed forces and their impact in upholding and supporting the female gender in the country.

“This event marks a significant milestone in our collective efforts to mainstream gender in our defence and security sectors architecture”.

She noted that the country and the society must recognise that conflicts and security challenges would never impact everyone in the same way.

“For example, women and girls often face specific threats, such as sexual and gender-based violence, trafficking and exploitation during conflicts.

“These issues are not merely collateral but are central to the security environment, and addressing them requires the understanding of the gender dynamics at play.

“Integrating gender perspectives enables the armed forces to adopt a more comprehensive approach to security.

“It involves assessing how military actions affect different segment of the population.

“It also ensures that interventions and mitigation efforts do not, inadvertently, harm vulnerable groups.

“For instance, in conflict zones, understanding the role of women as community leaders, peace builders or caregivers, can lead to more effective peacekeeping strategies,’’ she said.

The keynote speaker for the event, Prof. Muhammed Laden, the Director-General, Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies, Abuja, said that gender inclusiveness ought to be a right of participation for all.

He added that gender inclusivity should be a constitutional mandate, adding that the importance of women in conflict prevention and resolution, peace building and post-war reconstruction could not be overstated.

He noted that, series of United Nations Security Council’s resolution on women, peace and security, had long established the relevance of a gender perspective in military affairs, combat and peace operations.