The Department of State Services (DSS) has inaugurated its gender mainstreaming policy outlining a homegrown comprehensive framework for the integration of gender perspectives and inclusiveness in the agency’s policies, programmes and procedures.
DSS Public Relations Officer (PRO), Dr Peter Afunanya, disclosed this in a press statement on Thursday, in Abuja
He said the framework was a key component of the Service’s commitment to promoting gender equality in line with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the National Gender Policy of the Federal Government of Nigeria.
“The policy was launched at an epoch-making ceremony witnessed by the Minister of Women Affairs, Dame Pauline Tallen, who served as the Special Guest of Honour.”
According to the Spokesperson, the DSS Director General, Alhaji Yusuf Magaji Bichi, noted that the policy was aimed at promoting gender equality and creating a work environment free of discrimination and bias.
The DG, who was represented by the Director of Administration, Mr Kabiru Sani, stated that: “We recognise that gender mainstreaming is essential to achieving this goal and we are proud to launch this policy as a demonstration of our commitment to this cause.”
He enjoined all and sundry to embrace the new policy and ensure its full implementation at every level of decision making. On her.part, the minister commended the Service, particularly the DGSS, for the iniative and called on other agencies to emulate the Service.
Afunanya further stated that, “It is instructive to note that the DSS is one of the leading security agencies in Nigeria promoting gender friendly policies.”
He said also present at the event were members of the Service management and staff.