Women have long played a critical yet often overlooked role in conflict resolution and peacebuilding. Despite their contributions, systemic barriers continue to limit their influence in security frameworks. This issue took center stage at the recently concluded 5th Annual Forum organized by the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, UN Women, and the German government.
The two-day event underscored the urgent need to integrate women into peace and security decision-making, highlighting their role in fostering stability, justice, and sustainable progress. Stakeholders from various sectors stressed the importance of dismantling barriers that hinder women’s full participation in conflict resolution efforts.
Speaking at the event, Comrade Bassey Ita Ikpang, Chairperson of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) FCT Chapter, emphasized the media’s role in amplifying the voices of women peacebuilders. She urged journalists, civil society organizations, and policymakers to collaborate in ensuring women’s contributions to peace and security are not only recognized but actively promoted.
“The media plays a crucial role in shaping public opinion, holding leaders accountable, and providing a platform for marginalized voices,” Ikpang stated. “By promoting dialogue and understanding, we can help prevent conflicts, foster reconciliation, and reduce panic, ensuring that informed decisions drive security policies.”
She reaffirmed NAWOJ’s commitment to amplifying the appeals of indigenous communities and ensuring inclusive narratives in media coverage. “By shedding light on the root causes of conflict and exposing human rights violations, the media can be a powerful force for bridging divides and promoting peaceful coexistence,” she added.
Women’s Role in Security: From Advocacy to Action
Historically, women have led peace initiatives, mediated conflicts, and rebuilt war-torn societies, yet their contributions remain undervalued. In Nigeria, despite being a signatory to the landmark United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325, adopted in 2000 to recognize women’s critical role in peace efforts, progress has been slow. Women are still marginalized in formal peace negotiations and security leadership positions.
Across Africa, women-led organizations have been instrumental in countering violent extremism, promoting community resilience, and advocating for human rights. However, institutional roadblocks continue to restrict their access to leadership roles in the security sector.
The forum, themed “Enhancing Implementation: The Role of the Security Sector in Nigeria’s 3rd National Action Plan (NAP) on Women, Peace, and Security (WPS)”, addressed these challenges. Experts at the event emphasized the need for policy reforms, gender-sensitive security strategies, and increased investment in women’s leadership development.
A Call to Action
As global security challenges intensify, women’s inclusion in peace and security frameworks is no longer optional, it is essential. The media, policymakers, and civil society must work together to amplify women’s voices, counter divisive narratives, and push for gender-responsive policies.
A proactive and responsible media landscape will be instrumental in ensuring women are not just participants but leaders in shaping a future defined by stability, justice, and progress.
