Reps, UN sign MoU to eliminate discrimination against women

The house of representatives has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the United Nations (UN) to eliminate discrimination against women in Nigeria.

The MoU was signed with the office of the United Nations Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women—Nigeria Member (OCEDAWNM).

In a statement on Wednesday, Akin Rotimi, spokesperson of the house of representatives, said the MoU will strengthen legislative interventions focused on addressing the issues affecting women.

Rotimi said the collaboration highlights the green chamber’s commitment to promoting inclusion and affirmative action in line with the “people’s house legislative agenda”.

The lawmaker said the MoU reaffirms the dedication of the house of representatives to rebuilding public trust.

He said Abbas Tajudeen, speaker of the house of representatives, recently approved a parliamentary development programme for the 10th assembly.

He said the programme is sponsored by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and focuses on capacity building for members and staff of the house of representatives.

Speaking on the partnership with the UN, the speaker said the house is taking a “proactive approach to address gender discrimination and promote equality”.

“We are here again this afternoon to enter another working agreement with the United Nations group on the elimination of discrimination against women to promote the vision of our legislative agenda on inclusion and affirmative action for good governance,” he said.

“There is no better way to underscore the dedication of the house towards rebuilding the confidence of our people through pragmatic citizen’s engagement and capacity strengthening.

“These efforts are aligned with our legislative mandate to fulfill global and regional obligations while addressing local needs and contexts.

“The house of representatives remains steadfast in providing legislative support and actions to ensure the success of these partnerships.”