UK and Nigeria Commit to Advancing Women’s Rights
On 12 November 2025, a pivotal meeting convened by the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association UK brought together the UK’s Special Envoy for Women and Girls, Baroness Harriet Harman, and prominent members of Nigeria’s National Assembly. The participants reached a consensus to bolster their collaboration aimed at promoting the rights and equality of women and girls across both nations.
Pledges of Commitment
In an atmosphere marked by unity and resolve, the representatives pledged to undertake the following actions:
- Advocate for the rights and dignity of all women and girls within both countries, leveraging their legislative capacities.
- Develop and implement policies and reforms that uphold the equality and rights of women and girls.
- Collaborate to eliminate violence and discrimination faced by women and girls.
- Encourage women’s equal involvement in political processes and decision-making roles.
- Enhance opportunities and leadership roles for women in economic and business sectors.
- Promote universal access to comprehensive healthcare services, including sexual and reproductive health, as well as equal education for women and girls.
A Global Alliance Against Regression
The attendees expressed their commitment to stand together in solidarity against any attempts to undermine progress made in women’s rights. They expressed a shared intention to foster a global alliance of women leaders and their supporters, emphasizing the necessity of transforming women’s equality from a mere aspiration into an everyday reality.
Signatories of Change
In attendance were key figures, including:
- Baroness Harriet Harman KC, Special Envoy for Women and Girls, UK
- Senator Ireti Heebah Kingibe, Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Women’s Affairs, Nigeria
- Hon. Blessing Chigeru Amadi, Deputy Chairperson of the House Committee on Women Affairs and Social Development, Nigeria
- Senator Samaila Dahuwa Kaila, Deputy Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health, Nigeria
- Hon. Kafilat Ogbara, Chairperson of the House Committee on Women Affairs and Social Development, Nigeria
- Hon. Zainab Gimba, Former Chairperson of the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians International, Nigeria
Background
The collaboration between the UK and Nigeria in advancing women’s rights comes at a crucial time, as global campaigns increasingly focus on gender equality. This partnership underscores both nations’ commitment to combating inequalities and promoting women’s leadership in various sectors.
Source: official statements, news agencies, and public reports.
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/joint-communique-between-the-uk-special-envoy-for-women-and-girls-and-representatives-of-the-nigerian-national-assembly-12-november-2025
