Gender priority is the intentional focus on addressing gender inequalities and promoting gender equality in various aspects of society. It involves prioritising policies, programmes, and initiatives to improve the social, economic, and political status of all genders, particularly women and girls, who often face systemic disadvantages.

Prioritising gender for national development in Nigeria has been deepened with gender issues mainstreamed in policy implementation. The Revised 2021-2026 National Gender Policy aims to bridge gender and social inclusion gaps, protect women’s human rights, and promote economic empowerment.

This policy provides strategic guidance for mainstreaming gender at all levels. In education and health, supporting women and girls’ education, lifelong health, and survival is crucial. In economic empowerment, state preeminence harnesses women’s human capital assets as a growth driver for national development.

Governance and leadership have included advancing women’s participation and representation in leadership and authority, guaranteeing that women have a voice in decision-making processes, and integrating gender equity concerns into social protection. Humanitarian actions, legislations, and policies have helped to ensure that socially excluded groups are being integrated into the prevailing development practices.

There have been deliberate, planned steps to implement and enforce laws that protect women’s rights and promote equality. Gender issues intersect with various other social issues, creating a complex web of challenges in Nigeria.

Gender Priority Strategy (GEPS) is a comprehensive approach to advancing gender equality and empowering women. It delves into advocacy and policy, education and training, community impact projects, collaboration and partnerships, and, of course, monitoring and evaluation. GEPS plays a crucial role in promoting gender equality and empowering women by addressing the root causes of gender disparities and fostering an inclusive society.

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