Nigeria General

Nigeria welcomes the opportunity to reflect on the progress made in the implementation of the women and peace and security agenda 16 years after the adoption of the landmark resolution 1325 (2000). While we acknowledge the substantial achievements made in this endeavour, there are still challenges and significant gaps yet to be addressed. They include the participation of women in decision-making and leadership roles, more involvement of women in the prevention of conflict and peace efforts, insufficient funds, lack of disaggregated data, forced displacement exacerbated by persistent armed conflict, and continuing unprecedented levels of sexual violence and assault. It is our expectation that this debate could offer prospective solutions to address the prevailing challenges and gaps, and suggestions for acquiring the needed resources to advance the role of women within the context of the global peace and security architecture.

Meeting these challenges is critical to making progress on the women and peace and security agenda. This will require a multi-stakeholder approach involving actors at the global, regional, subregional and national levels. Communities, civil society and individuals also have a crucial role to play.