Nigeria’s Re-election to UN CEDAW Committee Reflects Global Confidence in Tinubu Administration’s Gender Agenda, Says Minister

Nigeria's successful re-election to the United Nations Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) is being hailed as a significant diplomatic achievement and a testament to the country's dedication to advancing gender equality. The Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, stated that the victory underscores Nigeria's growing leadership in protecting the rights of women and girls globally.

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Nigeria’s Re-election to UN CEDAW Committee Reflects Global Confidence in Tinubu Administration’s Gender Agenda

The election, held at the UN Headquarters on June 26, saw Nigeria's nominee, Mrs. Esther Eghobamien-Mshelia, secure a second four-year term, triumphing over candidates from eight other nations. The Minister emphasized that this outcome reflects the international community's confidence in Nigeria's commitment to promoting women's rights and reinforces the nation's influence in shaping global discussions on gender equality. It also ensures Africa's voice remains strongly represented within the CEDAW Committee.

This re-election builds on momentum generated at the 69th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW69), where Nigeria spearheaded an initiative leading to commitments from several states to accelerate the domestication and implementation of CEDAW. The Minister highlighted this as evidence of the Federal Government's resolve to translate international commitments into tangible improvements in the lives of Nigerian women and girls through enhanced legal protections, expanded economic opportunities, better access to education and healthcare, and increased institutional accountability.

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the outcome reflects the international community’s confidence in Nigeria’s commitment to promoting the rights of women.

Minister Sulaiman-Ibrahim attributed the success to the "visionary leadership" of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whose administration's "Renewed Hope Agenda" prioritizes women, families, and vulnerable groups. She noted the declaration of 2026 as the Year of Families and Social Development as proof of the administration's commitment to inclusive growth and gender-responsive governance. The invaluable support of First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu and her "Renewed Hope Initiative" in empowering women through entrepreneurship and skills development was also acknowledged, alongside the contributions of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other key stakeholders.

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the declaration of 2026 as the Year of Families and Social Development reflects the administration’s commitment to inclusive growth, social protection and gender-responsive governance.