The Federal Government has reiterated the importance of women to the growth of the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), insisting that guided steps must be taken to protect them and ensure that they are not left behind in the push for economic recovery.
The Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Atiku Bagudu, made the assertion at the formal launch in Abuja on Tuesday of the second phase of the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC II), a programme supported by the European Union (EU) and implemented by the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IDEA).
He said there is the need for promotion of full participation of women in the economy as a strategy to substantially improve socio-economic indicators such as GDP growth, employment generation and poverty reduction.
Bagudu noted that enhanced performance of the criminal justice system and justice service delivery, and increased transparency and accountability of anti-corruption systems and reforms in Nigeria are required for equity and robust participation of economic agents in all sectors of thé economy.
He added, “Beyond gender parity, ensuring that women thrive in Nigeria society also involves protecting vulnerable women from Sexual and Gender Based Violence (SGBV) and enforcing existing Child’s Rights Laws.”
Bagudu, represented by Director (International Cooperation), Federal Ministry Of Budget And Economic Planning, Dr. Lanre Adekanye, while recognizing the success of RoLAC I, said: “The Second Phase being flagged-off today, seeks to further improve the justice sector and anti-corruption systems by reinforcing the achievements made so far and promoting effective enforcement of legal and policy frameworks with a focus on the implementation of the National Anti-Corruption Strategy and the National Policy on Justice.
“The intervention aligns with the National Development Plan 2021-2025, the blueprint for Nigeria’s economic recovery, conceived to create strong and sustainable governance structures, and efficient institutions that promote citizens’ protection. In the same vein, RoLAC Phase II is expected to drive productivity for sustainable growth in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Current Administration.”