UN Warns Nigeria's Democracy at Risk Over Women's Rights

On International Women's Day 2026, Beatrice Eyong from UN Women highlighted the critical state of Nigeria's democracy, noting that women hold only 3.9% of parliamentary seats, the lowest globally. Eyong warned that without urgent action, Nigeria's democratic progress and development would be stunted.

She pointed out the stark gender inequality and the barriers women face in accessing justice and safety, despite years of advocacy. Eyong raised concerns about the increasing violence against women, particularly in the digital space, and the need for stronger political representation through proposed constitutional reforms.

UN Women is working with the federal Ministry of Women Affairs to strengthen a national sexual offenders database and engage traditional leaders to challenge discriminatory practices. Eyong emphasized that meaningful progress requires effective implementation of gender policies and called on the media to amplify the voices of survivors and promote women's leadership.

She reiterated UN Women's commitment to ensuring tangible changes for women and girls in Nigeria.