By Seyi Odewale
As the world celebrates International Women’s Day (IWD), the National Association of Seadogs (NAS), Pyrates Confraternity, has called for adequate protection for women.
In a statement by the NAS Capn, Dr Joseph Oteri, the Association maintained that women’s universal entitlement to equality, dignity, and freedom is non-negotiable and aligns with the IWD 2025 theme—”Accelerate Action.”
NAS pointed out that while many countries have implemented robust frameworks to protect women’s rights, Nigerian women often face systemic barriers that are less prevalent elsewhere. “For instance, the prevalence of child marriage and maternal mortality rates in Nigeria are higher than global averages, indicating a need for targeted interventions.”
NAS argued that while global strides have been made toward gender equality, Nigerian women, especially, continue to face unique challenges that hinder their full participation in society.
According to the Association, a significant number of Nigerian women experience gender-based violence, including domestic abuse and sexual assault.
“Cultural norms and systemic issues often impede justice for survivors, leading to underreporting and inadequate support systems.”
Quoting a recent UNICEF report, the Pyrates Confraternity worried that approximately 30.3 per cent of Nigerian women aged 20–24 were married before the age of 18, a practice that curtails education and perpetuates cycles of poverty and inequality.
According to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), Nigeria accounts for nearly 20 per cent of global maternal deaths, highlighting significant challenges in women’s healthcare. The report added that restrictive laws on reproductive rights contribute to unsafe practices, further endangering women’s health.
In the political terrain, NAS disclosed that despite comprising nearly half of the population, Nigerian women’s representation in political decision-making remains low, falling short of the 35 per cent target stipulated in the national gender policy.
“While many countries have implemented robust frameworks to protect women’s rights, Nigerian women are still pitted against ingrained barriers. For instance, the prevalence of child marriage and maternal mortality rates in Nigeria are higher than global averages, indicating a need for targeted interventions.
“Nigeria must make urgent changes to align with global standards and uphold the principle that women’s rights are human rights.
“Firstly, the country needs to strengthen legal frameworks and implement and enforce laws that protect women from violence and discrimination.
“Nigeria must prioritise education by ensuring access to quality education for girls, which is pivotal in delaying marriage and empowering women economically.
“Also pertinent is the need for the country to enhance political inclusion by creating avenues for increased female participation in governance and decision-making processes, investing in maternal health services, and upholding reproductive rights to reduce mortality rates.
The Association insisted that by addressing these areas, Nigeria can make significant strides toward ensuring that women’s rights are recognised, respected, and realized.
“As we celebrate the IWD, the Pyrates Confraternity recognises the incredible strength, resilience, and achievements of women worldwide, especially those who have not only broken barriers but also paved the way for future generations,” he said.
According to the group, women have significantly shaped societies, economies, and politics globally. Their contributions to governance, business, science, education, and activism have brought about transformative changes, even in the face of systemic inequalities.
