Civil Society Urges Extension of Social Protection to Women in Informal Economy

A civil society organisation, Accountability Lab Nigeria, has urged the Federal Government to extend social protection to women in the informal economy, a move aimed at strengthening their economic participation and promoting inclusive growth. According to Tribune Online, the organisation made this call in light of the fact that many women are engaged in petty trading, hairdressing, waste picking, and other informal activities that often lack the benefits and protections enjoyed by formal sector workers. The call comes at a time when the Nigerian government is making efforts to expand its social protection programmes, with a focus on reaching vulnerable groups such as women, youth, and the elderly. The extension of social protection to women in the informal sector could include access to health insurance, maternity protection, and childcare support, among other benefits. This move is expected to not only support the economic empowerment of women but also contribute to the overall socio-economic development of the country. The Accountability Lab Nigeria joins other civil society organisations and development partners in calling for the inclusion of women in informal work in social protection programmes. This is a crucial step towards achieving gender equality and reducing poverty among women in Nigeria.