Cross River State, under the leadership His Excellency, Sen. Prince Bassey Otu, has reaffirmed its commitment to gender equality and the protection of migrants through its active participation in a two-day stakeholders’ consultation on the implementation of the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration (GCM) in the ECOWAS sub-region.
The Sub-Regional GCM implementation conference in preparation for the GCM Regional Review for Africa 2024, which held, Sept 2024 at Transcorp Hilton, Abuja, brought together Government officials, Development Partners, and select stakeholders from across the ECOWAS region to discuss strategies for promoting gender inclusivity and protecting the rights of migrants.
Special Adviser to the Governor on Gender Mainstreaming, Dr. Inyang Asibong, who was the delegate from Cross River State, emphasized the State Government’s dedication to building a society that is free from gender biases and offers equal opportunities for all. She highlighted the State’s efforts to create a supportive environment for migrants, youths, men and women, ensuring that they are not limited by outdated gender norms. Adding that the State is a welcoming destination for migrants from neighboring African countries, and currently hosts over 48,000 International immigrants.
During the ECOWAS conference, Dr. Asibong advocated for a more empathetic and equitable approach to gender relations. She called for the dismantling of harmful gender stereotypes that can negatively impact the self-esteem and mental health of boys.
The conference concluded with the adoption of a draft communiqué, which outlined key recommendations for addressing gender stereotypes and promoting the rights of migrants within the ECOWAS region.
Cross River State’s participation in this important conference demonstrates its leadership in promoting gender equality and protecting the rights of migrants. The state’s commitment to these issues is a testament to its vision of a more inclusive and just society. Also, being an international border state has made it a preferred location for individuals seeking refuge, better opportunities, or simply a new life.
Present at the conference were delegates from the 13 members of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) including Benin, Cabo Verde, Cote d’Ivoire, The Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, and Togo.
The meeting was hosted by the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), and coordinated by HE Amb. Catherine Udida, Director Migration at the Commission.
