Nigeria has expressed its gratitude to the European Union (EU) for its unwavering support in the battle against gender-based violence within the country. The allocation of twenty-five million euros (€25,000,000) to bolster this cause has been met with appreciation and optimism. The Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Sen. Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, conveyed this sentiment while delivering a heartfelt goodwill message at the handover ceremony of the Spotlight Initiative Nigeria country programme in the capital city of Abuja.
The minister, represented by the Director of the International Cooperation Department, Dr. Lanre Adekanye, emphasized the significant milestones achieved by the Spotlight Initiative in Nigeria. He attributed their success to the unwavering commitment of stakeholders, partners, and the comprehensive education on various forms of violence against women and girls. Furthermore, he reassured the audience that the ministry stands resolute in its support for similar programs aimed at upholding the outcomes and impact of the Spotlight Initiative, recognizing women and girls as agents of development and change within the nation.
In his address, Matthias Schmale, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, expressed profound satisfaction with the federal government, civil society groups, the women’s movement, and youth organizations for their exemplary leadership and unwavering commitment to creating a world free from violence against women and girls. Schmale underlined the focus of the initiative on gender-based violence, highlighting the tangible results achieved since its inception in 2019.
With the initiative drawing to a close, Schmale emphasized the importance of securing the commitments made for sustained impact. He revealed that the Spotlight Initiative had contributed to transformative changes in laws and policies, providing essential services to almost 16,500 women and girls at its centers, and forming alliances with traditional rulers and religious leaders.
European Union Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, H.E Amb. Samuela Isopi, lauded the program in Nigeria for embracing a holistic approach that united all stakeholders and facilitated the achievement of significant results. Notably, she pointed out that nearly all states in Nigeria had passed the Child’s Right Act, marking it as the fastest bill to be endorsed at the national level in the nation’s history. She further assured continued EU commitment to the rule of law and anti-corruption program implementation, with a dedicated focus on upholding women’s rights and inclusion across various sectors, including girls’ education, maternal health, women’s economic empowerment, and political representation.
The commendable efforts and collaborative spirit showcased in the fight against gender-based violence in Nigeria stand as a testament to the power of unified action in effecting positive change. The EU’s steadfast support and the unwavering dedication of the Nigerian stakeholders serve as beacons of hope and progress in the global fight against gender-based violence, setting a compelling example for nations worldwide.
