Philippine Envoy Calls For Stronger Gender Laws, Institutional Accountability In Nigeria
Princess-Ekwi Ajide
Gender inclusion requires more than policy statements; it needs laws, funding and institutions capable of enforcing compliance, Philippine Ambassador to Nigeria, Mersole Mellejor, has said.
Mellejor spoke during a dialogue under the Female Legislative Mentorship Initiative on Parliamentary Affairs and Diplomacy at the Philippine Embassy in Abuja.
The session, themed “Women at the Table: The Philippine Gender and Development (GAD) Framework for Inclusive Governance, Diplomacy, and Peace,” brought together Nigerian legislative mentees, officials from the Directorate of Parliamentary Affairs, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and diplomatic representatives.
Mellejor said the Philippines had introduced mechanisms that attach gender mainstreaming to government budgets, making agencies accountable for implementing gender policies.
He also cited the country’s Safe Spaces Act, which provides legal protection against gender-based harassment and abuse in public spaces and workplaces.
The envoy commended Nigeria’s progress on gender inclusion, despite its complex socio-cultural landscape, and urged policymakers to view the country’s diversity and large youthful population as strengths.
“You are on the right path,” Mellejor said, adding that Nigeria’s young, technology-oriented population also offered opportunities for economic growth, particularly in the creative industries.
He expressed optimism that the Philippine Embassy, the National Assembly and civil society organisations could deepen cooperation on gender-responsive legislation, women’s leadership, peacebuilding and diplomatic engagement.
The session also featured contributions from Philippine Vice-Consuls Norman and Yate, who shared the embassy’s experience with Gender and Development programmes.
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