The National Orientation Agency on Thursday mobilised community, religious leaders towards tackling gender-based violences in Gombe State.
Speaking during a one-day stakeholders’ town hall on gender-based violence in the state, Gombe State Director of NOA, Adaline Waye, called for an end to all form of abuse against women and girls.
Our correspondent reports that the town hall was held by the agency in commemoration of 2024, 16 days of activism, with theme; ‘Unite to end violence against women and girls’.
According to Waye, Ending the scourge of violence requires collective efforts from governments, civil society, traditional institutions, faith-based organisations, and individuals.
She said, “Gender-based violence against women and girls is not just a violation of human rights it is a threat to our societal progress, peace, and development. It leaves scars, both visible and invisible, that hinder individuals, families, and communities from reaching their full potential. The statistics are staggering, but more than numbers, these are real lives affected our mothers, sisters, daughters, and friends.
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“To truly end violence against women and girls, we must unite as a nation and as a global community. This unity transcends gender, age, religion, ethnicity, and socio-economic status.”
While urging stakeholders to reject violence in all its forms, NOA stated its resolve to curb the challenges through community dialogues, media campaigns, and grassroots engagement, “We will continue to educate Nigerians on the importance of protecting women and girls, promoting gender equity, and upholding the rule of law.
“Let us not stop at words. Action is needed-swift, deliberate, and impactful. Laws against gender-based violence must not only exist but be enforced. Survivors must have access to justice, medical care, and psychosocial support. Educational programs must challenge harmful stereotypes and promote a culture of respect and equality.
“I call on all men and boys to join this fight. True strength lies not in domination but in protecting and uplifting the vulnerable. Let us all reject toxic practices that perpetuate violence and instead champion respect and empathy,” added.
Waye further called for safe spaces within the communities, saying that it can be achieved with collaboration, “As we commemorate these 16 days, let us remember that the fight against gender-based violence is a 365-day commitment. Together, we can create safe spaces in homes, schools, workplaces, and public spaces. Together, we can raise a generation of young people who value and uphold the dignity of women and girls. Together, we can make violence a thing of the past,” she added.
Delivering a paper on ‘Uniting against GBV in Gombe State’, Fatima Mohammed from Santanah Care Foundation called for concerted efforts towards curbing gender-based violence in the state.
She added, “GBV is the order of the day. It refers to harmful acts on an individual based on their gender. It includes physical, emotional, psychological abuse typically inflicted on women and girls although men and boys are also victims.”
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