The Benue State Multi-Stakeholder Implementation and Monitoring Committee (SMIMC) on Women, Peace and Security (WPS), in collaboration with civil society organisations and key stakeholders, has commenced the review of the State Action Plan (SAP) to strengthen women’s participation and protection in peacebuilding processes.
The validation meeting, held on Tuesday, at Doo Palace Hotel in Makurdi, brought together government agencies, development partners, and security institutions to assess the existing framework and address emerging challenges.
In his opening remarks, SMIMC Chairman Mr. Joseph Gbagyo said the exercise was aimed at updating the expired SAP to reflect current realities rather than drafting an entirely new document. He noted that the initiative, supported by the CLEEN Foundation, aligns with the implementation of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325.
“Already, there is a document in place. We are only improving on it to incorporate emerging issues, with commitments from partners such as the Benue State Budget and Planning Commission, the Peace and Reconciliation Committee, and the Ministry of Women Affairs,” he said.
Gbagyo added that a multi-sectoral approach involving tertiary institutions would enhance research and curriculum development, ensuring that the revised plan is practical and impactful.
He further explained that the review focuses on key areas such as women’s participation in governance, protection against violence and harmful practices, and support for women affected by conflict.
Also speaking, the State Lead of CLEEN Foundation, Mrs. Magdalene Igbazua, described the meeting as the second phase of the review process aimed at identifying gaps and adapting the plan to present-day realities.
“We are examining what has changed since 2025 and identifying contextual issues to ensure the Action Plan becomes a functional and effective document,” she said.
She added that inputs from stakeholders including the Budget and Planning Commission, Ministry of Women Affairs, and the Police would be harmonised and submitted to the ministry for implementation and follow-up.
According to Igbazua, a functional SAP would not only enhance women’s involvement in peace and security but also provide clear guidelines for their inclusion in decision-making processes.
The Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Theresa Ikwue, represented by a director in the ministry, Mr. Austin Ugbir, reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to supporting the successful review and implementation of the plan.
The Benue State Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security was initially launched in 2021 with support from International Alert and the Norwegian Embassy, providing a roadmap for advancing gender inclusion in peace and security efforts across the state.
