A Civil Society Organisation, Accountability Lab Nigeria, dedicated to promoting gender equality and women empowerment, has called for concerted efforts with the newly-appointed Director General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, on gender equality in workspace and every other human endeavor to afford women a levelled playing field.

Accountability Lab made this call during a crucial meeting with the newly-appointed Director General of the NOA, Mallam Lanre Issa Onilu, and its Programs and Learning Manager, Ehi Idakwo.

At the meeting, the CSO harped on the critical importance of NOA’s commitment to implementing the National Gender Policy in Nigeria. It further listed key areas such as gender mainstreaming, gender-responsive budgeting, and affirmative action for women.

It also hinted on innovative strategies to dismantle the barriers that have hindered women from realizing their full potential.

In his reaction, NOA Director General, Mallam Lanre Issa Onilu explained his agency’s priority areas and expressed a strong willingness to collaborate closely with Accountability Lab Nigeria. He announced the commitment of NOA to work hand in hand to drive the necessary changes required to break down the obstacles that have impeded women’s progress in the country.

Accountability Lab said the meeting marks the first step in a series of engagements with various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) aimed at implementing the National Gender Policy comprehensively.

This article was originally published in the Nigerian Tribune

Kibo Ngowi