The Federal Government has launched a Gender Desk Network known as the Women Network (WoN), reinforcing its commitment to gender equity and inclusive leadership within Nigeria’s public sector. The official unveiling took place in Abuja on April 25, 2025.
The Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), who also serves as Patron of the network, described the initiative as a strategic step toward embedding gender equity into the Service’s policies, operations, and internal culture. He noted that the launch was not merely symbolic but a firm declaration of the government’s intention to lead by example.
“We must embed gender equity into every policy, every system, and every process,” he said, emphasizing that gender equality is not only a constitutional right but also a fundamental pillar of good governance and effective institutional performance.
The initiative aligns with Nigeria’s National Gender Policy and supports global goals including SDGs 5, 8, and 17. It also aims to enhance mentorship, professional growth, and leadership opportunities for women across all levels within the FIRS.
The Special Adviser on Communications and Advocacy to the FIRS Chairman revealed ongoing collaboration with relevant ministries and the Corporate Affairs Commission to clearly define women-led and women-owned businesses. This step is considered crucial for developing more inclusive economic policies that accurately reflect women’s contributions to the economy.
The Women Network is part of a broader push to position the Service as a model for gender-inclusive reform. The FIRS chairman challenged staff and management to pursue the UNDP Global Gender Equality Seal, calling for a culture of excellence that values fairness and amplifies every voice.
“True service demands not only excellence but fairness,” he said. “Every voice must be heard, and every potential realized.”
With this move, the FIRS joins a growing list of public institutions in Nigeria taking deliberate steps to ensure inclusive governance and equitable development.
