Unted Nations Commends National Defence College On Promoting Gender Inclusivity In The Security Sector of Nigeria
The United Nations has commended the National Defence College (NDC), Nigeria for its support towards actualising gender inclusivity in the security sector of Nigeria. Speaking at the opening ceremony of the maiden edition of the United Nations Leadership and Mentoring Course for Senior Female Officers of Security Institutions in Abuja, the UN Women Country Representative in Nigeria, Mrs Beatrice Eyo said the collaboration between NDC and other stakeholders is a good step towards achieving gender inclusivity in the country’s security sector which is in line with UN Resolution 1325.
Mrs Eyo who was represented at the opening ceremony of the course by Mr Peter Mancha said the gender – responsive approach underscores the central role women play in today’s world, adding that inclusion of women in peace keeping and peace building operations yield more positive results as strong female representatives are more trusted by the residents of area of operations. Delivering the Keynote Address to the participants of the Course, the Commandant, Rear Admiral Olumuyiwa Olotu emphasized the importance of intentionality in achieving goals of gender inclusivity adding that the event should be seen beyond merely a routine undertaking, but rather a vital step towards shaping the future of our institutions. “The course is aimed at enhancing leadership at all levels of command and to establish an inclusive and sustainable mentoring framework that will positively impact the security sector for generations to come,” the Commandant added. He further noted that the College Mission extends beyond military professionalism, as the course is designed to provide the essential tools and supportive networks needed for women in leadership roles adding that such mentorship is a crucial component of national security and development.
Earlier in his welcome remarks, the Provost, Centre for Strategic Research and Studies, NDC, Prof Adam Ahmed while congratulating the participants for being among the selected few for the maiden course thanked the Commandant for his support and encouragement. The Provost further stated that the course which is aimed at training the trainee on leadership and mentoring is organised by the Centre in collaboration with NDC, UN and the German Government.
The opening ceremony of the weeklong Leadership and Mentoring Course which draws participants that are senior officers from the Armed Forces, the Nigerian Police Force, the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps and other relevant security agencies receives goodwill messages from Service Chiefs, IGP, Commandant General NSCDC, UN Women Country Representative and the Ambassador of the Republic of Germany.