Taiwo POPOOLA
A Non-Government Organisation known as Zarar Maru Foundation paid a courtesy visit to the Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, in recognition of his leadership and strong support for the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) agenda.
The visit accordingly provided a strategic platform for engagement on strengthening gender-responsive approaches within Nigeria’s defence and security architecture, with a focus on the protection of women and girls, conflict prevention, and women’s meaningful participation in peace and security processes.
Speaking during the visit, the Founder, Mariam Yaro, emphasised the importance of inclusive security leadership:
“The Women, Peace and Security agenda is not merely a policy commitment; it is a necessity for sustainable peace. We commend the Honourable Minister of Defence for his leadership and for advancing security approaches that recognise women as critical stakeholders in peacebuilding and national stability.”
Zarar Maru Foundation highlighted its ongoing work in peace advocacy, community resilience, and support for vulnerable populations, particularly in conflict-affected communities across Northern Nigeria. The Foundation stressed the importance of collaboration between the Ministry of Defence, the Armed Forces, civil society organisations, and development partners to ensure the effective implementation of WPS commitments at both national and community levels.https://urbanexpresslive.com/zarar-maru-foundation-visits-defence-minister-advocates-for-women-peace-security/
In his response, the Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, reaffirmed the Federal Government and Armed Forces of Nigeria’s commitment to the WPS agenda, noting that inclusive and people-centred security strategies are essential to addressing contemporary security challenges and fostering long-term peace.
The visit concluded with a shared commitment to sustained partnership, dialogue, and collective action towards advancing peace, security, and inclusive governance in line with the principles of the Women, Peace and Security framework.
