In a remarkable achievement for both Nigeria and Africa, Lois Auta, the President and Founder of the Network of Women with Disabilities (NWD), has been named one of 12 global professionals selected to serve on the Inter-Agency Steering Committee (IASC) Protection from Sexual Exploitation, Abuse, and Harassment (PSEAH) Championship Women’s Advisory Group.
This appointment, which followed a competitive process that saw over 300 applications from global experts, highlights Auta’s impressive track record in advocating for women and persons with disabilities. Her selection is not only a personal triumph but also a historic moment for Africa, as she is the only representative from the continent and the only woman with a disability in the group.
Led by Cindy McCain, IASC PSEAH Champion for 2024, the Women’s Advisory Group will focus on three key areas: adopting a survivor-centered approach to support victims, driving organizational culture change, and enhancing capacity-building efforts across the sector. These priorities aim to protect vulnerable individuals from sexual exploitation and harassment on a global scale.
Auta’s involvement in the group is expected to bring much-needed African perspectives to the international dialogue on safeguarding the rights of women, girls, and women with disabilities. Her work on disability inclusion has already garnered international recognition, and this new role will allow her to influence policy discussions and initiatives on a broader platform.
The onboarding session for the newly appointed members was held on September 23, 2024, where the group set out its objectives and strategic plans for the year ahead.
The Cedar Seed Foundation (CSF) has congratulated Auta on her prestigious appointment, praising her dedication to promoting gender equality and disability rights globally.