From Rhetoric to Reality

Abstract

The role of women in peacebuilding has largely been underrepresented and marginalized. This chapter explores the potential of women's leadership in peacebuilding in Nigeria and how their participation can strengthen the peace-building processes. Using desktop review approach, the chapter investigates the obstacles such as patriarchal attitudes and structural barriers to women's leadership in peacebuilding. It argues that increasing women's participation is critical to strengthening peacebuilding in Nigeria. This necessitates a multifaceted strategy that addresses structural barriers to women's participation. It concludes that women's peace-building leadership is critical for achieving long-term peace and security in Nigeria and by extension Africa. However, turning rhetoric into reality necessitates a collaborative effort on the part of all stakeholders. It necessitates a commitment to gender equality and women's empowerment, as well as an understanding of the unique perspectives and contributions that women can bring to peace-building efforts.