Nigeria has pushed back at the UN, rejecting parts of a global women’s rights agreement over what it calls “controversial terminology” and concerns about sovereignty.
Nigeria has formally distanced itself from several phrases used in the outcome document of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW70) held at the United Nations in New York.
Led by diplomat Syndoph Endoni, the Nigerian delegation said it could not align with what it described as “new or expanded terms” that may create obligations outside existing international agreements.
Among the contested expressions are references to “multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination,” “gender stereotypes,” and “universal access to sexual and reproductive health.”
Nigeria also objected to “gender-responsive” language in justice and budgeting discussions, insisting that interpretations must align with national laws, cultural values, and what it described as “natural gender categories of male and female.”
Beyond the language dispute, Nigeria also raised concerns about the adoption process of the CSW70 document, noting that unlike previous years, it was adopted by vote rather than consensus.
The vote reportedly passed with 37 in favour, one against, and six abstentions—an unusual shift that Nigeria said raises questions about the integrity of the process.
Despite its objections, Nigeria voted in support of the final document, saying it did so to preserve the overall outcome and maintain engagement on women’s empowerment issues.
Officials stressed that Nigeria remains committed to constructive participation in UN processes while safeguarding national sovereignty and policy positions.
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