UNDP Commends Nigeria’s Commitment To Healthcare, Gender Equality

The United Nations’ Assistant Secretary General, Ms. Ahunna Eziakonwa, has commended Nigeria’s government and the National Assembly for voting $200 million for healthcare in Nigeria.

The commendation followed the withdrawal of funding assistance by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).

Speaking at a meeting in Lagos with a delegation of the House of Representatives led by the Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Kalu, Eziakonwa, who is also the African Regional Director for the United Nations Development Programme, UNDP said Nigeria’s action sets a precedent on the continent.

By filling the funding gap, Eziakonwa said that Nigeria has demonstrated leadership in looking inward to improve the lives of its people rather than relying solely on foreign donors.

In response to the Deputy Speaker’s request for a strategic partnership, particularly on ongoing constitutional reforms, gender bills, seat reservation, and political inclusion, Eziakonwa who was accompanied to the meeting by the Resident Representative in Nigeria, Ms. Elsie G. Attafuah affirmed the UNDP’s support.

She highlighted the importance of gender equality, especially in times of global challenges.

“A bill seeking seat reservation for women in parliament to increase their participation in governance sponsored by the Deputy Speaker is before the National Assembly for consideration and passage.

The Deputy Speaker, Kalu, had earlier in his presentation emphasized the progress made in the constitutional review process and areas for collaboration with the UNDP which included advancing women’s participation in politics and governance, peacebuilding, capacity development, and civic education.

“The House of Representatives recognizes that women remain grossly
underrepresented at all governance levels, despite their critical role in
nation-building.

“The ongoing constitutional review process offers a unique opportunity
to dismantle structural barriers that limit women’s participation.

“Through our Constitution Review Committees, the National Assembly
is considering progressive amendments to promote gender equity, including expanding women’s representation in both appointed and elected positions; instituting quotas in legislative seats at the federal and state levels; eliminating biased clauses in the Constitution and electoral laws; building robust, gender-responsive frameworks for inclusive governance, Kalu said”.

Oduyemi Odumade, Edited By Blessing Nyor