NSCDC Gender Policy II launched in Nigeria with UK support to promote women’s inclusion, address gender-based violence and strengthen security operations

The British Deputy High Commissioner to Nigeria, Hill Obe, has called on Nigerian security agencies to implement the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps Gender Policy II (2026–2030), emphasising that true transformation begins with policy in practice.

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Hill Obe made the appeal during the official inauguration of the policy on Tuesday in Abuja, highlighting that policies only matter when they are reflected in leadership decisions, training, deployment, and organisational culture.

“So I encourage every officer, male or female, to keep pushing forward as strong leadership, adequate resourcing, continuous learning and collective accountability will be essential for this policy to reach its full potential,” Obe said.

She added that the policy addresses technology-facilitated gender-based violence and incorporates gender-responsive budgeting and accountability mechanisms.

The inauguration, Obe said, signalled a clear commitment to women, peace and security, and a step towards a more resilient Nigeria. She also commended NSCDC Commandant General, Ahmed Audi, for establishing a gender desk to enhance women’s representation in the corps.

The Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, noted that Gender Policy II was launched after gaps identified in the first policy were addressed.

He emphasised the importance of including women in security operations, particularly given that women and children are often most affected by asymmetric conflicts.

Dr Ukoha Ukiwo, Team Leader of Strengthening Peace and Resilience in Nigeria, welcomed the partnership with NSCDC, stressing that the policy would strengthen the corps’ role in preventing, reporting, and prosecuting violations of women’s rights and gender-based violence.

Women, Peace and Security Expert Dr Eleanor Nwandinobi urged security agencies to take ownership of the policy and ensure the inclusion of persons living with disabilities, highlighting that women’s participation in national affairs requires collective responsibility.

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The NSCDC Gender Policy II builds on the corps’ first gender policy, enhancing women’s involvement in security operations and aligning with Nigeria’s broader commitments to the global Women, Peace, and Security agenda, which promotes the inclusion of women in conflict prevention, resolution, and peacebuilding processes.