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The Nigerian delegation at the 70th session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW70) has flagged some terms in the outcome document as controversial.
The CSW70 was held at the United Nations Headquarters in New York between March 9 and 19, 2026. The Nigerian delegation to the UN women’s event was led by Amb. Syndoph Endoni, Chargé d’Affaires, Permanent Mission of Nigeria to the UN.
“Nigeria does not align with the introduction of new or expanded terminology that may give rise to controversial interpretations,” said Endoni.
Credit: The Sun.
The delegation explained that the current formulation of the text raises concerns regarding the preservation of national sovereignty.
NAN reported that Nigeria objected to several expressions contained in the document.
Some of the terms included in the outcome document include gender stereotypes, all forms of discrimination, and “diverse situations, contexts, and conditions”.
Others are “gender-responsive” approaches in justice-related budgeting. Explaining its stance, the delegation noted that “the interpretation and application of terms must remain consistent with national laws, cultural and religious values” and should reflect the “understanding of the natural gender categories of male and female.”
The Nigerian delegation also said the outcome document was adopted without consensus, adding that it raises concerns regarding the legitimacy and integrity of the process.
Endoni, however, said Nigeria voted in support of the agreed conclusions document despite its objections. The Nigerian delegation added that it supported the overall outcome, in line with its commitment to women’s empowerment. It reaffirmed its readiness to continue engaging with member states constructively within the United Nations system.
“Nigeria remains committed to constructive engagement in a manner that respects national contexts and internationally agreed frameworks,” Endoni added.
During the event, the United States sought to redefine the term “gender” within the United Nations framework, but Belgium blocked the vote by tabling a motion of no action to prevent the draft from being considered.
