Following increasing number of gender-based violences in Gombe State, a non-profit organisation, Open Knowledge Development Initiative on Friday commenced process to developing GBV prevention and response framework in the state.
Our correspondent reports that OKDI organised the engagement as part of the ongoing AmplifyHer for safe schools campaign in Gombe State, with support from PLAN International Nigeria.
Speaking, Executive Director of OKDI, Adamu Usman, noted that a recent school visit by the organisation revealed a shocking discrepancy between reported cases of GBV and the actual number of incidents.
Usman said, “Within just one month, we recorded and addressed five GBV cases in schools, whereas the Gombe State Government reported fewer than 400 cases over four years. This underscores the need for improved data collection and reporting mechanisms to address GBV effectively.”
He disclosed the organisation is dedicated to fostering positive societal change, noting that it recently convened session to enrich its draft GBV prevention framework by bringing together a diverse group of specialists to address the pressing issue in schools and communities.
“We are committed to creating safer environments for women and girls in Nigeria.The development of our GBV Prevention Framework is a critical step towards achieving this goal.
“During the session, participants brainstormed key issues related to GBV, including root causes, challenges, and potential solutions. Their contributions will serve as a foundation for the final draft of the GBV Prevention Framework and the establishment of a Centralised Gender-Based Violence Reporting System,” Usman added.
Monitoring and Evaluation Officer of OKDI, Muib Shefiu, described the organisation’s efforts to combat GBV in Gombe State as timely and urgent.
Shefiu added, “OKDI’s AmplifyHer for Safe Schools Campaign and the development of the GBV prevention framework reflect the organisation’s unwavering commitment to creating safer environments for women and girls in Nigeria. As OKDI continues to push for systemic change, its efforts serve as a beacon of hope for communities grappling with the scourge of gender-based violence.”
