By Palma Ileye
In continued efforts to end violence against women, girls and amongst male folks, the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy and Development, Centre LSD, has strategized comprehensive and proactive approach to achieve this feat.
This measures, are aimed at curbing the menace of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence and enhancing the development of women and girl-child in the country.
Speaking yesterday during a press briefing on the 16 Days of Activism/campaign to End Violence Against Women and Girls in Abuja, the Director of Development, Centre LSD, Dr. Margaret Fagboyo said that despite global and local efforts, nearly one in three women in Nigeria have experienced violence saying that this was unacceptable, and collective action must be taken to address this issue.
Fagboyo stated that the Centre LSD, as the National Secretariat for the Side-by-Side Movement for Gender Justice, was committed to revitalizing commitments and calling for accountability and action from decision-makers.
She said that in commemoration of the global 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, Centre LSD has organized a series of activities to raise awareness and promote action which includes: “A Symbolic Orange Day Walk tagged ‘Gender Justice Walk,’ to raise public awareness and solidarity for eliminating violence against women and girls.
“High-level advocacy featuring interviews with members of the National Assembly and prominent traditional leaders to advocate for stronger policies and community engagement on GBV.
“Podcast Series featuring thematic discussions on GBV prevention and elimination; Infographic Campaign with daily posting of powerful messages and visuals to educate and inspire action against GBV.
“Radio Program and Sensitization visits to IDP camps or shelters and outreach activities in various States as well as Regional engagement.”
She said that the Centre LSD will also hold collaborative sessions with stakeholders in Northern and Southern Nigeria to drive localized solutions to GBV noting that by focusing on these strategic interventions, the centre and its partners will contribute to a unified global movement to end violence against women and girls.
She urged well meaning Nigerians and the media to join in the campaign saying that, “Together, we can create a world free from gender-based violence. Let us unite to make a difference.”
Centre LSD, also called on Governments, Civil Society Oganizations, traditional leaders,
and individuals to take concrete actions to prevent and respond to GBV.
The Centre also highlighted its role as the National Secretariat for the Side-by-Side Movement for Gender Justice, pledging that it was committed to supporting the efforts of women’s rights organizations and other stakeholders to end GBV.
“We will continue to work with our partners to advocate for policy changes, provide support services to survivors of GBV, and promote community-led initiatives to prevent GBV,” she added.
She concluded that the issue of GBV was a pressing concern that requires collective attention and action, urging that, “We must work together to create a world where women and girls can live free from fear of violence and discrimination. And Centre LSD is committed to playing its part in this effort.”
