The Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA) has called on the Federal Government and state governments to adopt stronger protections and more inclusive policies for Nigerian women as the world marked the 2026 edition of International Women’s Day (IWD) on March 8, 2026.
In a statement issued on Saturday, March 8, 2026, and signed by its Media and Communications Officer, Robert Egbe, CAPPA said this year’s theme, “Give to Gain,” highlights the significant contributions women make to sustaining families, communities and the wider economy despite the challenges they continue to face.
The organisation noted that women across Nigeria play key roles in managing household resources, caring for children and relatives, and supporting family livelihoods, especially in difficult economic conditions. However, CAPPA stated that many women and girls still struggle to access essential services such as safe water, sanitation, healthcare and education necessary for a dignified life.
CAPPA also expressed concern over the persistence of gender-based violence in the country. Citing figures from the Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey, the group said about 31 percent of Nigerian women aged 15 to 49 have experienced physical violence, while roughly nine percent have suffered sexual violence at some point in their lives. It added that more than 10,000 cases of gender-based violence were reported between January and September 2025.
The organisation further highlighted economic inequality and low political representation as major issues affecting women. According to CAPPA, data from the National Bureau of Statistics shows women are more likely to work in low-income and informal sectors with limited job security and social protection. It also noted that women currently occupy only about 3.9 percent of legislative seats in Nigeria, urging policymakers to prioritise reforms, including the proposed Special Seats for Women Bill, to improve women’s representation in governance.
