From Abubakar Rabilu, Gombe
The Center for the Study and Resolution of Domestic Violence (CERSDOV), in collaboration with the Norwegian Government and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), has paid an advocacy visit to the Gombe State House of Assembly to deepen partnership in combating Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and advancing Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) across the state.
Leading the delegation, the Chief Executive Officer of CERSDOV, Professor Hauwau Evelyn Yusuf, said the visit was aimed at strengthening the implementation of gender protection laws and enhancing coordination among key institutions.
She commended the Gombe State House of Assembly for domesticating the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Law (VAPP) but emphasized the need for stronger enforcement through collaboration with the Ministry of Justice, the Police, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Ministry of Women Affairs.
“Domestication is only the first step. The real change comes when the law is effectively enforced to protect victims and punish offenders.
The violation of one girl child is the violation of an entire nation,”Professor Yusuf stated.
Receiving the delegation, the Speaker of the Gombe State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abubakar Muhammad Luggerewo, reaffirmed the commitment of the state government to safeguarding and empowering women and girls.
According to him, the administration of Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya has demonstrated strong political will in promoting women’s welfare and dignity, noting that the Assembly has enacted key legislations such as the VAPP Law and the Child Rights Act to protect women and children.
“Under Governor Inuwa Yahaya, Gombe has made significant progress in addressing gender-related issues. Beyond passing laws, we are working to ensure their full implementation for the benefit of our citizens,”the Speaker added.
Luggerewo disclosed that the state government, in partnership with the Federal Government and the World Bank, recently disbursed over ₦7 billion to support girl-child education and welfare, stressing that continuous awareness and sensitization are crucial for sustainable gender protection.
The Chairman of the House Committee on Women Affairs, Hon. Gabriel Galadima, commended CERSDOV and its partners for their sustained advocacy efforts, describing the organization as a credible and passionate partner in the fight for gender equality and justice.
“CERSDOV’s work is commendable, and we are proud to associate with their mission. The Gombe State House of Assembly remains fully committed to ensuring the full enforcement of the VAPP Law,” he assured.
Professor Yusuf further highlighted that CERSDOV has been active in Gombe State for over two years with the support of UNFPA and the Norwegian Government, training community ambassadors and local officials to address GBV, SRHR, even in hard-to-reach communities.
The visit ended with both parties pledging stronger collaboration to reinforce the implementation of gender protection laws and ensure justice, safety, and dignity for victims of violence across Gombe State.