By Adesuwa Ehimuan
The Coordinator, Office of the First Lady, Edo State, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, has reiterated her commitment to transparency, accountability, and sustainable development in the implementation of initiatives that benefit both women and the state at large.
Speaking during a meeting with members of West Africa Network for Peacebuilding (WANEP- Nigeria) in Government House. Mrs. Anani emphasized that every initiative undertaken by her office must positively impact women while contributing meaningfully to the overall development of Edo State.
She stressed the importance of due diligence and transparency in governance, noting that she insists on fully understanding any document or proposal before lending her support.
In her remarks, the National Network Coordinator of WANEP- Nigeria, Dr. Bridget Osakwe, highlighted the significance of the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 (UNSCR 1325), which focuses on women’s participation in peace and security processes.
Dr. Osakwe explained that Nigeria has developed a National Action Plan (NAP) on UNSCR 1325 and is encouraging states to domesticate and localize the framework. She disclosed that Edo State’s Action Plan has been finalized and is ready for launch, pending the Governor’s signature.
According to her, 16 states across the federation have successfully localized the plan, with ongoing efforts to ensure more states follow suit.
Dr. Osakwe further drew attention to the unique experiences of women during elections, particularly issues of violence and marginalization, stressing the need for deliberate interventions to address these challenges. She commended Edo State for its sustained efforts over the past four to five years in advancing the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) agenda.
She solicited continued support of the First Lady’s Office to ensure the prompt launch, effective implementation, and proper reporting of the Action Plan to further advance women’s inclusion in peacebuilding and development processes in Edo State.
