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The attention of the wives of traditional chiefs and council chairmen in the Federal Capital Territory have been drawn to the growing menace of Gender Based Violence, GBV, often perpetuated through discrimination and inequality in the society.
The women, at a workshop recently organised by the Federal Capital Territory Administration were asked to end the wave of GBV in in their immediate communities.
In her opening remark, Minister of State for FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, noted that GBV is a human rights violation that remains a barrier to achieving gender equality and sustainable development.
Mahmoud, who was represented by Director, FCT ServiCom, Funmilayo Adebayo, said the violence has devastating consequences for women’s health, including physical injuries, sexually transmitted infections, and mental health disorders.
She added that the issue also undermines women’s ability to participate in society, access education and employment opportunities, and contribute to their communities’ development.
According to her, “Governments, civil society organizations, and individuals must work together to prevent violence from happening, support survivors, and hold perpetrators accountable.
“This requires a comprehensive and coordinated approach that addresses the root causes of gender-based violence, including gender inequality, discrimination, and harmful social norms and attitudes. By working together, we can create a world where everyone can live free from violence and discrimination based on their gender or sex.
“Let us remember that our actions today have the potential to initiate change, raise awareness, and contribute to the eradication of GBV in our communities. By harnessing the power of data and working together, we can build a safer and more inclusive society.”
Earlier in his welcome address, the Mandate Secretary, Social Development Secretariat, Ibrahim Aminu, said the initiative is about strengthening stakeholders’ capacity to respond to GBV effectively.
Aminu reiterated the need to work together to ensure that every survivor of GBV receives the support and assistance they need to heal and rebuild their lives.
“Your presence signifies your commitment to the well-being of your communities and your determination to tackle GBV head-on. Your active participation in this program will undoubtedly contribute to the success of our collective efforts in your various communities and Area Councils.
“I am confident that this event will serve as a catalyst for greater collaboration, stronger data-driven interventions, and a renewed commitment to ending GBV in FCT,” he stressed.
Wife of the Ona of Abaji, Hajiya Hauwa Baba-Yunusa, described the initiative as a welcome development, as it would boost the quest to eradicate the menace from communities across 17 chiefdoms of the FCT.
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