By Abubakar Yunusa
The Federal Government, through the Ministry of Labour and Productivity, and Oxfam Nigeria have called for equal opportunities for workers regardless of gender and protection against discrimination.
They made the call at the opening ceremony of a 2-day workshop on the training of trainers for the staff of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, with the theme: “Gender advocacy and influencing the Nigeria Workplace Gender Policy (NWPGP)” in Abuja yesterday.
In his welcome remarks, the Honourable Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Rt. Hon. Barr. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, said, “Our goal is to ensure that every worker, regardless of gender, has equal opportunities and is protected against discrimination.”
According to him, this workshop, organized by the Inspectorate Department, reflects our collective commitment to fostering gender equality and ensuring that our workplaces become more inclusive and equitable for all Nigerians.
“This workshop is designed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to become effective trainers in gender advocacy. By the end of this training, participants will understand the principles and objectives of the NWPGP and be capable of advocating for gender equality in various workplace settings,” he added.
He explained that the International Labour Organization (ILO) has established several conventions that address gender equality, which are relevant to Nigeria.
These conventions aim to eliminate gender discrimination, promote equal opportunities, and protect the rights of both men and women in the workplace.
Earlier, Oxfam Country Director, John Makina, said today marks a significant milestone in our collective journey towards fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace environment and advancing the future of work across Nigeria.
“As advocates and influencers, we bear the responsibility of shaping policies and practices that not only acknowledge but actively promote gender equality and social inclusion, ensuring that every individual, irrespective of their gender and social classification, is afforded equal opportunities and protections in the workplace.
“We are here to equip ourselves with the knowledge, skills, and strategies necessary to drive meaningful change through this policy. By empowering ourselves, we, in turn, empower countless others who rely on us to champion their rights and aspirations in the world of work by closing the gender pay gap, creating inclusive and diversified workplaces, and providing a safe space for everyone for collective and personal growth, and promoting decent work and a gender-responsive work culture in our nation.”
On her part, Director for Gender in the Ministry of Women Affairs, Mrs. Friya Bulus, said, “The Government of Nigeria is committed to building a nation devoid of gender discrimination, guaranteeing equal access to political, social, and economic wealth creation opportunities for women and men.”
