The WPS Architecture in Nigeria, including federal and state-level structures.
The Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) architecture in Nigeria operates through a multi-tiered framework involving federal, state, and local structures, guided by the National Action Plan (NAP) on UNSCR 1325. Here’s a breakdown of the key components:
Federal-Level Structures
1. Women, Peace, and Security Sector Reference Group (WPSSRG)
An inter-agency coordination platform involving security institutions (military, police, civil defense) and gender advisers to align policies with UNSCR 1325. Established under UN Women’s Enhancing Gender-Responsive Security Sector Reform project.
2. National Action Plan (NAP) Technical Working Group (TWG)
Oversees NAP implementation, monitoring, and reporting. Comprises federal ministries, UN agencies, and civil society. Led by the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs (FMWA).
3. Federal Ministry of Women Affairs (FMWA)
Custodian of Nigeria’s NAP, steering policy integration across sectors. Coordinates with state governments to domesticate WPS frameworks.
State-Level WPS Structures
1. State Action Plan (SAP) Committees
Established in 14 states (e.g., Kaduna, Bauchi, Benue) to localize NAP priorities. For example, Kaduna’s SAP integrates gender-sensitive early warning systems.
2. Women Mediators Networks
National Network of Women Mediators (NNWM): Supports grassroots conflict resolution and interfaces with security agencies. UN Women and FMWA enhance their capacity under Phase II of Nigeria’s WPS programme.
3. HeForShe Network
A male allyship initiative launched by UN Women in Kaduna, Plateau, and 4 other states to promote gender equality in peacebuilding.
4. WPS Media Network
Trained journalists amplify women’s roles in peace processes, linked to UN Women’s advocacy projects.
5. Ministry of Transportation (MOT) & Civil Society Partnerships (CSP)MOT: Pilots gender-responsive infrastructure in conflict zones (e.g., safe transport for women in post-conflict areas).
CSP: NGOs like Mercy Corps support Women Peacebuilding Councils (WPCs) to draft community action plans and advocate for NAP accountability.
These structures reflect Nigeria’s multi-tiered approach, though challenges like uneven SAP adoption persist
