Adamawa Gov’t, Federal Agencies, World Bank Train 50 on GBV in Yola

From Umar Dankano, Yola

In collaboration with the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) and the Covid-19 Preparedness and Response Project (COPREP), a World Bank project, the Adamawa state government conducted a two-day training workshop on gender-based violence (GBV) in Yola.

Fifty participants from all 21 local government areas in the state attended the workshop, where they were sensitized on the prevention of Sexual Exploitation and Abuse/Sexual Harassment (SEAH/SH).

Mr. Damba D. Kwinke, the COPREP Project Coordinator, emphasized that the goal of the workshop was to enhance the knowledge of stakeholders on SEA/SH and GBV and Referral Pathway. He urged participants to pay close attention to the seasoned resource persons, emphasizing the urgent need to address GBV, a global menace affecting women, men, girls, and boys.

Dr. Ahemen T.A., the State Coordinator of the World Health Organization (WHO) in Adamawa State, commended the organizers and stressed the importance of traditional leaders in addressing GBV. She highlighted the prevalence of GBV and the crucial role traditional leaders play in activities like immunization and outbreak response in the state.

Barrister Fatima Bello Raji, another resource person, discussed the legal framework on GBV, emphasizing the protection of victims’ rights through legislation. She outlined the applicable laws, including the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (AS AMENDED), Administration of Criminal Justice Act/ACJL, Penal Cord Law 2018, VAPP Laws, Child Right Act/Child Protection Law, Anti-Torture Act, Police Act & Regulations, and International/Regional Instruments.

GBV Consultant Mr. Abdulmalik Yusufu presented the concepts and definition of Referral and referral pathways, stressing the importance of referring to health services. Yusufu also discussed how to report a case of GBV and the importance of disclosing experiences to trusted family members or friends.