Kennedy-Ohanenye, represented by Mr. Adamu Web, Director of Gender Affairs, stressed the significance of the new policy aimed at fostering equality between genders in workplaces across Nigeria. She highlighted this policy as a major stride in advancing gender balance and promoting social inclusion within employment spaces.
Safer Work Environments Through Collaboration
The minister noted that the initiative is designed to create safer working environments, free from harassment. Stakeholder involvement is crucial to the success of this effort. Through active participation, the government seeks to curb negative workplace behaviors and promote a more respectful culture.
Praise for Efforts in Policy Promotion
Acknowledging the contributions of the Ministry of Labor and Employment, Oxfam, and other involved partners, the minister lauded their dedication to ensuring this policy’s promotion and implementation. Their efforts are seen as integral to the progression of equality in the workplace.
Ongoing Support from the Ministry of Women Affairs
The Ministry of Women Affairs remains fully committed to backing programs that promote gender equality and empower women. These initiatives focus specifically on policies that align with workplace improvements, helping raise awareness within various federal ministries. There is an ongoing effort to push the gender workplace policy through the Federal Executive Council (FEC) for formal adoption.
The Goal: A Safe and Inclusive Workforce
The overarching aim of this policy is to create a work environment that is inclusive and safe for all Nigerian employees, regardless of gender. Mrs. Olaolu Olaitan, Director of Inspectorate at the Ministry of Labor and Employment, remarked that gender equality unleashes the skills and perspectives of both men and women, thus enriching workplace dynamics and overall productivity.
Call for Continued Support
Mrs. Olaitan emphasized the need for further backing from ministries and development partners to realize an inclusive future where workplaces are truly gender-neutral. Collective efforts will help dismantle existing inequalities and improve work conditions.
Trade Union Congress Backs Gender Policy
The President of the Trade Union Congress, Mr. Festus Osifo, expressed support for the recently validated National Workplace Gender Policy, hailing it as a landmark moment in the effort to achieve safer and more inclusive work settings. Osifo reiterated the Congress’s commitment to backing the policy and helping create workplaces where equality thrives and individuals, regardless of gender, can reach their full potential.
Fostering a Culture of Mutual Respect
Osifo closed his remarks by calling for a collective push to build an environment based on respect, understanding, and empowerment. He urged all stakeholders to work together in creating a professional atmosphere where mutual respect prevails, and everyone benefits equally.
