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| Participants in a group photograph |
By Williams Ago, Gombe
A recent roundtable discussion in Gombe State highlighted the pervasive issue of gender-based violence (GBV) during the 16 Days of Activism Against GBV.
Participants revealed numerous cases, particularly involving rape and sexual abuse of young girls, that have become distressingly normalized. Stories shared included instances where school-age girls, sent to hawk goods, were repeatedly violated by older men.
Stakeholders called for policy reforms, enhanced support for survivors, and increased awareness to combat this growing trend.
The event, themed “Towards Beijing+30: Unite to End Violence Against Women and Girls,” was organized by USAID Nigeria State2State at Emerald Hotel, Gombe.
The participants at the discussion, who include, traditional rulers, civil society organisations (CSO's), faith based groups, government officials among many others, emphasized the need to break the culture of silence by exposing perpetrators and strengthening mechanisms for survivors.
Chabiyada Eli, Gender and Social Inclusion Coordinator of State2State, during her presentation pointed out that violence against women and girls continue to impede equality, development and peace.
According to her, one in every three women experience violence, a statistic that has refused to change over the years. "This persistent issue has continue to hinder the participation of women and girls at all levels of governance,” she lamented.
Eli called on government, CSO's, private sector stakeholders and influencers to intensify efforts towards eliminating GBV. She also stressed the need for collective action to build a safer society.
Notable persons at the discussion included, the District Head of Kolmani in Akko LGA, Mohammed Magaji; chairperson of NCWS, Hajiya Hauwa Saraki; ANGO chairman, Idris Maigari Lawanti; secretary of NAWOJ, Abigail Kolo; representatives from the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Health, Education, Budget and Economic Planning as well as Local Government and Community Development and many others.
They called for reviving referral pathways to provide safe spaces for survivors and establishment of gender desks offices across ministries to improve institutional responses to GBV.
They also pledged their commitment towards creating awareness, pushing for systematic change and ensuring that survivors receive the care they deserve.
16 Days of Activism campaign was initiated in 1991 by the United Nations in collaboration with Feminist Movement to end all forms of violence against women and girls.
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