UK Envoy Endorses Nigeria’s Updated Security Gender Policy

The British Deputy High Commissioner to Nigeria, Gill Lever, has expressed strong support for the newly launched Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Gender Policy II, urging security agencies to move beyond rhetoric and ensure full implementation.

Speaking at the inauguration of the 2026–2030 policy in Abuja, Lever stressed that the success of any policy lies in how it is applied in everyday operations, leadership decisions, training programmes and organisational culture across the security sector.

She noted that the updated framework promotes inclusivity by addressing emerging issues such as technology-enabled gender-based violence, gender-responsive budgeting, and accountability mechanisms within security institutions.

Lever described the policy launch as a firm signal of Nigeria’s commitment to the Women, Peace and Security agenda, adding that stronger collaboration, adequate resources and sustained leadership would be critical to achieving its objectives.

She also highlighted the long-standing partnership between the United Kingdom and Nigeria, anchored on shared democratic values, while commending the NSCDC leadership for establishing a dedicated gender desk to improve women’s representation.

Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, said the revised policy was developed after reviewing gaps in the first gender policy, adding that the new framework reflects lessons learned and evolving security realities.

He emphasised that women’s inclusion is essential to effective security reforms, noting that women and children are often the most affected by asymmetric conflicts, making gender-sensitive approaches central to national security efforts.

Other stakeholders, including development partners and gender experts, welcomed the policy, expressing optimism that it would strengthen the NSCDC’s capacity to prevent, report and prosecute gender-based violence, while building public trust in security institutions.