Nigeria, 20/12/2023

In a groundbreaking initiative aimed at eliminating the issue of Gender-Based Violence (GBV), the Women’s Rights Advancement and Protection Alternative (WRAPA) with support from the the Agents for Citizen-Driven Transformation, a British Council and the European Union funded Programme recently convened a National Policy Dialogue in Nigeria. This event was strategically held during the globally recognized 16 Days of Activism against GBV, the event brought together influential voices and stakeholders to shine a spotlight on the persistent challenges hindering the effective elimination of GBV within the country.

The dialogue served as a critical platform to illuminate the gap between reported cases of GBV and the actual instances, unveiling financial constraints as a formidable obstacle in the path toward elimination. The discussion, led by WRAPA, delved into the multifaceted dimensions of GBV, emphasizing the need for a concerted and comprehensive approach to confront this societal issue.

Key Highlights from the Event:

• Funding Crucial in GBV Eradication: Hajiya Saudatu Mahdi, Secretary General of WRAPA and a distinguished advocate for women’s rights took center stage to emphasize the pivotal role of funding in eliminating GBV. Mahdi compellingly connected financial support to the well-being of women and the overarching development of the nation, emphasizing that a robust financial framework is crucial for creating sustainable solutions.
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  Haj. Saudatu Mahdi delivering her speech at the National Policy Dialogue

  Call for Inclusive Engagement: Mrs. Yemisi Nathaniel, Senior Program Coordinator at WRAPA, delivered a thought-provoking presentation that included a comprehensive analysis of GBV trends. Nathaniel passionately called for increased involvement of male actors, youth, and marginalized groups in the collective effort to eliminate gender-based violence. Recognizing the need for a united front, Nathaniel underscored the importance of inclusivity in shaping effective strategies.

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  Yemisi Nathaniel delivering a lecture on Fact Sheets

  Insufficient Investment in GBV Prevention: Bukky Shonibare, Founder and Executive Director of INVICTUS Africa, provided a substantial assessment of the Womanity Index. Shonibare’s insights unveiled a concerning trend of insufficient investment in GBV prevention and response, shedding light on a critical aspect that demands urgent attention and corrective action.

Ms. Bukky Shonibare

Notable Voices:

In addition to WRAPA key figures, the event garnered commendations and support from various dignitaries, including Mr. Damilare Babalola (National Programme Manager, EU-ACT), Mrs. Wynyfred Achu-Egbuson (Programme Manager, EU Delegation to Nigeria), and Mme Esther Ehobamien (Nigeria Representative of CEDAW). Their collective endorsement added weight to the importance of addressing GBV at a national level.

Honorable representatives from states including Plateau, Ekiti, Anambra, and Kwara expressed their commitment to combating GBV through increased budget allocations, legislation enforcement, and continuous sensitization efforts. Their participation showcased the widespread acknowledgment of the urgency of addressing GBV as an integral part of the nation’s progress.

Panelists discussion at the National Policy Dialogue

Resounding Call to Action:

The National Policy Dialogue reached its zenith with a resounding call for actionable commitments at all levels of governance. The stakeholders present, including advocacy groups, government representatives, and NGOs, passionately urged immediate and sustained efforts to bridge the gap between reported and addressed GBV cases. This collective call for action underscored the pressing need for tangible steps to be taken in the fight against gender-based violence, positioning it as a crucial component of national development.

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About WRAPA:

The Women’s Rights Advancement and Protection Alternative (WRAPA) is a leading organization committed to advancing and protecting the rights of women in Nigeria. Dedicated to fostering gender equality, WRAPA tirelessly addresses challenges related to gender-based violence and advocates for policy changes to create a more inclusive society.