LONDON,— Top female legislators from the United Kingdom and Nigeria have signed a joint communiqué committing to enhanced cooperation to advance the rights and equality of women and girls in both nations.
The agreement was signed Nov. 12 at a meeting organized by the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association UK, bringing together the UK Special Envoy for Women and Girls, Baroness Harriet Harman, and representatives of the Nigerian National Assembly.
The leaders pledged to stand together in “sisterhood and solidarity” to ensure women’s equality “is not only a goal, but a lived reality.”
Baroness Harman emphasized the need for a global alliance to prevent the erosion of progress.
“We agreed to stand in solidarity and sisterhood against the rollback of progress, supporting one and other as part of a global alliance of women leaders and their allies,” the communiqué stated.
The agreement outlines several key areas of joint action, including:
Championing the rights, dignity and agency of all women and girls in their countries and through their respective legislatures.
Advancing policies, legislation, reforms and practices that support women’s rights and equality.
Working together to eradicate all forms of violence and discrimination against women and girls.
Promoting women’s equal participation in politics and decision-making.
Supporting women’s economic and business opportunities and leadership.
Advocating for universal access to comprehensive healthcare services, including sexual and reproductive healthcare, and equal access to education for all women and girls.
The Nigerian signatories included Senator Ireti Heebah Kingibe, Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Women’s Affairs, and Hon. Kafilat Ogbara, Chairperson of the House Committee on Women Affairs and Social Development.
The commitment was formalized by the signing of the joint communiqué by Baroness Harman and the Nigerian representatives, who pledged to work together in “leadership, advocacy and action.”
