CISLAC Advocates for Women's Inclusion Reforms in Nigeria

On International Women's Day 2026, the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), led by Executive Director Auwal Rafsanjani, urged for significant reforms in Nigeria's laws and policies to promote women's inclusion. The organization expressed concern over recent developments that threaten to reverse previous gains in women's rights and inclusion.

CISLAC highlighted the persistent structural inequities and discrimination that hinder women's representation in decision-making processes. The statement emphasized the necessity of transforming the legal framework to accelerate the development of women and girls in Nigeria.

CISLAC criticized political parties for their insufficient commitment to gender balance and the lack of strong affirmative action within party structures, which limits women's access to electoral positions. The organization also raised alarms about the economic marginalization of women, who face "double poverty" due to restricted access to financial services.

Furthermore, CISLAC condemned gender-based violence and called for stronger accountability mechanisms to protect women and girls, urging collaboration among government, political parties, civil society, and the private sector to foster gender equality.