The Kaduna State Government has made significant progress in addressing Gender-Based Violence (GBV) cases, reporting approximately 500 cases to the National GBV Dashboard. As of the end of September, five cases have been prosecuted, providing a much-needed breakthrough in the fight against GBV.
Mr. Jamilu Ladan, the UNFPA State Sub-Implementing Partner Coordinator at the state’s Planning and Budget Commission (PBC), shared this commendable achievement during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Kaduna. Ladan, who serves as the Programme Officer at PBC, highlighted the collaborative efforts between the government, development partners, and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) working in the GBV space.
This milestone is particularly significant as Kaduna State initially lagged behind in the number of cases reported to the national dashboard. However, through concerted efforts, the state has emerged as one of the leading states in reporting GBV cases, with a total of about 500 recorded and five cases successfully prosecuted.
Dr. Elvis Evborein, the Reproductive Health Analyst for UNFPA Kaduna, emphasized the importance of a multisectoral approach in addressing GBV. He highlighted the roles played by CSOs, government agencies, and other partners in tackling this pervasive issue.
To enhance coordination and synergy in the GBV response, UNFPA supported the state government in establishing a GBV Technical Working Group. This platform brings together relevant stakeholders to collectively work towards achieving the desired goals in combatting GBV.
Regular quarterly meetings of the technical working group, facilitated by the Fund, have been instrumental in reviewing sector developments, documenting progress, and finding solutions to challenges. The primary focus of this partnership is prevention, ensuring that society understands that any form of violence, such as physical abuse and psychosocial torment, constitutes a violation of human rights.
This outreach extends beyond women to include young girls, children, and even men. Efforts are underway to address negative social norms, debunk myths, and provide survivors of GBV with access to vital services. To support survivors, the state has established referral pathways in every community.
The Kaduna State Government, in collaboration with its partners, is working diligently to create a society that denounces all forms of GBV. This collective effort remains vital in promoting respect, equality, and the protection of human rights for all individuals.
