The federal government says it will support initiatives aimed at promoting gender equality and empowering women in the workplace.

The Minister of Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, made this pledge at a high-level stakeholders’ advocacy meeting on “the validated Nigeria workplace gender policy” on Monday in Abuja.

The Ministry of Labour and Employment organised the meeting with the Ministry of Women Affairs and Oxfam Nigeria.

Ms Kennedy-Ohanenye stressed the importance of the policy in fostering gender equality in workplaces across the country. She said the policy was a significant milestone towards advancing gender equality and social inclusion in workplaces.

The minister said the initiative would lead to a safer work environment free from harassment through active participation of stakeholders.

She commended the Ministry of Labour and Employment, Oxfam and other partners for promoting the initiative.

“The policy’s ultimate goal is to create a safe and inclusive work environment for all Nigerians,” the minister said.

Olaolu Olaitan, a labour ministry director, said gender equality unlocked the skills and perspectives of both men and women.

She explained that gender mainstreaming considered the differences between men and women and addressed the human implications of the differences.

“When we avoid gender discrimination in the workplace, we can increase productivity and alleviate conflicts,” she said.

Helen Akinyemi,  Oxfam Nigeria’s programme manager (gender justice), said collaborative efforts would ensure successful approval and implementation of the policy.

She called for continued support from ministries and development partners to achieve a future where workplaces are inclusive and gender-neutral.

Festus Osifo, the Trade Union Congress’ president, said the validated National Workplace Gender Policy marked a significant milestone in the collective journey towards achieving the goal of a safe and inclusive work environment for all.

(NAN)