There is a saying that goes “ When you educate a woman, you educate her community.” This indicates that women are nurturers of the community. Women give birth and raise children to become the leaders of tomorrow. When we think of women as Nation builders, we not only think of them as the ones who nurture future leaders but also become leaders. Women have a very important role in society. Women may not be as biologically the same as men but they are just as smart and as determined as men are. Without women would there ever be a proper functioning society?
It is impossible to overstate the importance of women’s roles in all endeavours, and given their significant contributions to socioeconomic development, there can be no meaningful advancement if women are excluded. Due to persistent gender inequalities, domestic violence, and a lack of social protection, among other issues that exacerbate injustice and poverty, the vulnerable conditions of women in Africa are more pressing. They are unable to realise their full potential because of these and many other factors.
One of the nations where women have faced obstacles and discrimination due to their sex and the false perception that they belong in a lower class than men is Nigeria; a perception that is bolstered by cultural and traditional practices. Nevertheless, Nigeria has continued to develop and implement national strategies and plans for the advancement of women in leadership and managerial positions by modifying legislation, policy, and institutional frameworks in the manner in which they impact the full promotion and protection of women’s rights.
The Federal Government has re-enacted a number of criminal laws to incorporate restorative justice for crime victims, the majority of whom are women, and to reflect a gender perspective. These include the Trafficking in Persons Law Enforcement and Administration Act and the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, both of which are applicable to all federal courts. The Violence Against Persons Act (VAPP) of 2015, which establishes a broader legal framework for the prevention of all forms of violence, including rape, eliminates Female Genital Mutilation, unfair and discriminatory widowhood practices, and other harmful traditional practices, is another example of model legislation in this regard.
Moreover, moving forward in conclusion, Because women are known to have more empathy and are more likely to win the confidence of crime victims, it might be a good place to start to deliberately ensure that women are included in crime prevention and other organisations and companies as well as give them leadership roles. There needs to be an evaluation of victimology restitution systems and public education for the public regarding the advantages of inclusive criminal justice practices and institutions are two additional points. This will support women’s roles in the criminal justice system and address gender stereotypes while also accounting for crimes committed against women.
