Country Director of Mercy Corps Nigeria, Ndubuisi Anyanwu, has called for support for Persons With Disabilities as well as other vulnerable groups in Nigeria, North-East in particular against marginalisation.
Speaking on Wednesday during a one-day sensitisation to commemorate 16 days activism at Gombe State University, Anyanwu noted that Gender-based Violence has multi-sectoral impacts on individuals.
Our correspondent reports that 2023 theme is UNiTE! Invest To Prevent Violence against Women & Girls.
Anyanwu said, “Gender-based Violence transcends socioeconomic status, income and background. Nigeria is not immuned to some of these challenges, for us at Mercy Corps through our programming, interventions and partnerships. we will continue to raise the issues to create awareness in GBV.
“We have so many people that are here people with disabilities and it puts them at disadvantage, for us it’s to give everyone equal opportunity, we are an inclusive organisation, Mercy Corps promotes gender equality, we will continue to promote our values.”
The Country Director added that the annual campaign is not just a reminder of the stark reality faced by countless individuals worldwide but also a call to action to renew shared commitment to creating a world free from violence and discrimination.
“Again the significance of these 16 days cannot be overstated. It’s a powerful reminder as well….that gender-based violence knows no boundaries…..it affects individuals, irrespective of age, socioeconomic status, or background. It is an issue that demands our attention, our collective voices, and our unwavering determination to bring about change.
“In Nigeria, we are not immune to the challenges posed by gender-based violence. Hence, at Mercy Corps we recognise that it is crucial for us to confront the uncomfortable truths within our target communities through our multisectoral interventions and partnerships. The GBV goes far beyond its immediate victims, affecting families, communities, and hindering our collective progress,” he added.
