CISLAC Calls For Major Reforms To Strengthen Women Rights In Nigeria

The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre has called for comprehensive reforms in Nigeria laws policies and institutional practices to accelerate the protection development and participation of women and girls in the country.

In a statement issued to mark International Women’s Day 2026 the organisation warned that recent developments suggest a worrying decline in the progress previously made in promoting women rights and gender inclusion in Nigeria.

The statement signed by the Executive Director of CISLAC Auwal Musa Rafsanjani stressed that although awareness about gender equality has improved structural barriers discrimination and poor representation in leadership positions continue to limit women participation in governance and national development.

According to the organisation Nigeria must move beyond symbolic commitments and adopt deliberate gender transformation policies that address gaps in laws governance structures and justice systems affecting women.

CISLAC stated that transformative reforms are necessary to ensure women and girls have equal access to opportunities resources and decision making spaces. Without such deliberate reforms the progress achieved over the years could gradually be reversed.

The organisation also expressed concern that many political parties in Nigeria have not demonstrated enough commitment to gender balance especially in leadership and political representation. It noted that the absence of strong affirmative action policies within party structures continues to restrict women access to elective and appointive positions.

CISLAC further highlighted the economic challenges facing women across the country. According to the group many Nigerian women experience double poverty and exploitation due to limited access to financial services credit facilities and broader economic opportunities.

The organisation emphasised that economic empowerment remains one of the most important tools for lifting women out of poverty and achieving inclusive national growth.

In addition CISLAC raised concerns over the continued rise in gender based violence including s kidnappings harassment and abuse targeting women and girls.

The organisation called on government institutions law enforcement agencies civil society groups and the private sector to work together to strengthen legal protections ensure accountability and guarantee justice for victims.