Women Affairs Minister, Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, issued a stern directive at the 4th Annual Forum of the Women, Peace, and Security Sector Reference Group 2023 in Abuja, urging Nigerian security agencies to refrain from imposing taxes on women.
The barrister stressed the imperative of empowering women, asserting that without their empowerment, peace would be elusive. She emphasized, “When you empower a woman, you have empowered 20 women,” and called for an end to any disruptions by security agencies in women’s activities, stating, “No woman should be allowed to pay any tax fee.”
In response, Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, highlighted ongoing efforts within the Nigerian police to review policies in alignment with the national gender policy. Egbetokun affirmed the commitment of the current police administration to gender parity and emphasized the forum’s role as an advocacy platform for a gender-responsive security sector.
He underscored its significance in addressing issues related to the protection of women, children, and vulnerable individuals.
The Inspector-General anticipated the conference’s role in facilitating a comprehensive review of progress in implementing the women, peace, and security agenda in Nigeria, recognizing the potential to harness women’s strategic roles in shaping enduring peace and security strategies in the country.