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Neem Foundation: Women Discrimination and Disempowerment, Clog in the Wheel of A Nation
Neem Foundation: Women Discrimination and Disempowerment, Clog in the Wheel of A Nation
By Michael Mike
The discrimination and disempowerment of women and girls is a clog in the wheel of progress of a nation, the Executive Director, Neem Foundation, Dr Fatima Akilu has said.
Speaking at a Stakeholder Forum in Abuja organized by Neem and Ford foundations
to Review Access and Response to Sexual and Gender Based Violence (SGBV) in Northwest Nigeria, Akilu said: “The discrimination and disempowerment of women and girls threatens democracy, peace and security and is an obstacle to sustainable development. It weakens social cohesion, harmony, and justice and put a heavy burden on national economies.”
She however said that “despite the various challenges and gaps, progress has been seen in recent years which is attributed to the leadership of many stakeholders at the Abuja meeting.
Akilu told the gathering from stakeholders in Sokoto, Kaduna and Kano, that: “From being hidden in a culture of silence and impunity, eliminating violence against women has become a national priority, supported by a solid national and international framework.
She explained that “the VAPP and Child Protection Laws in the states obligate them to take responsibility for responding to violence against women and girls. Implementing and adopting these Laws is a strong foundation for women and girls’ rights to equality and freedom from violence. However, these documents remain inoperative and unenforceable if not properly implemented in the states that have adopted them.”
She however lamented: “That we are sitting here today discussing these issues means we still have a long way to go. We are here today to recognise that enhanced coordination and strategic partnerships can bridge the difference between despair and hope in a person who has experienced violence due to their sex or gender.”
She added that: “Although there have been setbacks, we have seen many good practices in recent years. It is essential to look at the evidence, at ‘what works’ to address violence against women. Such experiences can inspire and motivate others and serve as the engine for replication and scaling up. Most importantly, they must underpin the expanding global framework and consensus on ending violence against women and girls.
“Today’s engagement will be an opportunity to share evidence from the ground and to demonstrate that when Governments make adequate political and financial commitments, it is possible to see progress in eliminating violence against women. We hope to see new and improved laws and national action plans that provide for protection and provision of multi-sectoral services that include free hotline services, police and justice responses, shelters, legal aid, medical and health care services, including sexual and reproductive health services, and psycho-social counselling and support to women survivors of violence and their children. It is also essential that these services work together most efficiently and effectively to reduce the burden and impact on women and girls in reporting, response and recovery. These processes can be empowering for women.”
Akilu said: “We count on sensitisation/education programmes that teach human rights, equality and mutual respect. We need increasing numbers of women in politics, law enforcement, and peacebuilding architectures. We need adequate social protection, equal economic opportunities and decent jobs for women,” calling on all stakeholders present not to stop at words, insisting that: “We all must affirm a culture of zero tolerance for violence against women. At the centre of our discussions must be only one consideration – progress for women and girls everywhere.”
On her part, the Sokoto State Honorable Commissioner for Women and Children Affairs, Hajiya Kulu Abdullahi Sifawa commended the Neem and Ford foundations for a job well done in the execution of the 18 month-funded project “Prevent and Protect; Strengthening access and response to GBV in Sokoto, Kaduna, and Kano State”.
She attested to the change in the narrative in prevention and response to GBV and related issues that have impacted the lives of women and children in Sokoto state.
She disclosed that the Sokoto State has experienced 1,1 92 cases of gender-based violence since the Nanan Khadija Sexual Assault Referral Centre opened its doors in May 2020 with a total of 779 females and 413 males out of which 618 are females aged below 18 years while 388 are males that are minors.
She added that: “In the year 2022 alone, we have witnessed 476 cases of gender-based violence of which 85% are against women and girls.”
She said: “The Sokoto State Government has made giant efforts to both Prevent and respond to GBV through the passage of relevant laws, and policies, the establishment of structures, and the strengthening of systems that both prevents and responds to GBV and other related issues in the state. The fight has also been sustained to ensure justice for the survivors and their families.”
Nigeria to Boost Tourism and Cultural Sectors- Musawa
By: Michael Mike
Nigerian government has expressed its plan to take a leaf from China’s success in cultural branding and creative industries to boost the nation’s tourism and cultural sectors.
The Minister of Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, stated this on Sunday while speaking at the New Year gala celebrating China-Nigeria friendship, hosted by the China Cultural Centre in Abuja.
Musawa while highlighting China’s global influence through its cultural exports, such as food, martial arts, and cinema, said: “Everywhere you go in the world, you see an aspect of Chinese culture.”
The minister said: “This is something we want to explore—how we can monetize our own culture in the way China has done.”
She emphasized Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage and expressed optimism about forging co-production agreements and capacity-building initiatives between the two nations.
She said: “We’re discussing projects that focus on infrastructure for the creative industry and cultural sectors,” while noting that: “It’s essential for Nigeria to tap into China’s experience in branding and tourism, with the aim of revitalizing our own creative industries.”
The Director, China Cultural Centre in Nigeria (CCCNIG), Mr Yang Jianxing, who double as the Cultural Counselor of the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria expressed the importance of cultural and people-to-people exchanges in enhancing China-Nigeria relations.
He noted that the China Cultural Centre would host a series of activities in 2025 to promote culture, tourism, and education, aligning with the “Beijing Action Plan” under the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC).
He said: “These initiatives aim to deepen the friendship between the people of China and Nigeria.”
Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Nigeria-China Relations, Hon. Jafaru Yakubu, praised the long-standing ties between the two nations, stressing the need for stronger cultural and legislative collaboration.
He said: “This celebration is geared toward rebuilding stronger cultural ties,” noting that: “The Nigeria-China Relations Group will continue to explore legislative means to strengthen bilateral relations across sectors.”
On his part, the Director of Drum Majors for Peace, Nsikan Paul, emphasized the role of cultural diplomacy in fostering peace and understanding.
He said: “Peace is not just the absence of conflict but the presence of dialogue and collective action,” adding that: “Through cultural exchange and advocacy, we aim to empower youth and promote inclusivity.”
Nigeria to Boost Tourism and Cultural Sectors- Musawa
Troops Arrest Two Ammo Couriers, Recover Ammunition in Bauchi
By: Zagazola Makama
The Nigerian Army Troops of Operation Golden Peace have apprehended two suspected ammunition couriers and recovered a cache of ammunition during an intelligence-led operation in Kwari Biba, located within the Yankari Game Reserve in Bauchi State.
Intelligence sources told Zagazola Makama that the operation, conducted at about 9:00 p.m. on Dec. 18, led to the arrest of Maikudi Danweri, 62, and Abubakar Hamza, 26.
The troops recovered 204 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, a motorcycle, and a cash sum of N10,000 from the suspects. The suspects and the recovered items are currently in custody for further investigation.
The source noted that the operation was part of ongoing efforts to curb the proliferation of illegal arms and ammunition in the region, which has been linked to criminal activities and insecurity.
Troops Arrest Two Ammo Couriers, Recover Ammunition in Bauchi
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Nigerian Army Captures Notorious Bandit Leader, Baka Wurgi Linked to Emir of Gobir’s Murder
Nigerian Army Captures Notorious Bandit Leader, Baka Wurgi Linked to Emir of Gobir’s Murder
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of the 1 Brigade, Nigerian Army, have apprehended a notorious bandit leader and arms dealer, Bako Wurgi, alias Baka NaGarba, suspected to be behind the murder of the Emir of Gobir, Alhaji Isa Mohammad Bawa, in Sokoto State.
The operation, conducted on Dec. 14 at 10 p.m., followed intelligence reports that Wurgi was receiving treatment at a hospital in Shinkafi town, Zamfara State, for injuries sustained during a clash with a rival group.
Intelligence sources confirmed to Zagazola Makama, a Counter Insurency Expert and Security Analysts in the Lake Chad region that troops apprehended Wurgi after discovering he had been transported to the hospital with multiple cuts and gunshot wounds.
The sources said that During the operation, two accomplices fled, but troops arrested another individual who assisted in transporting the suspect in a tricycle
The late Emir of Gobir was abducted on July 9, 2024, in Sabon Birnin Local Government Area, Sokoto State, and murdered on Aug. 22 after negotiations for his release collapsed.
Reports indicate that Wurgi played a key role in the kidnapping and subsequent killing, which involved ransom negotiations that included cash and motorcycles but ultimately failed.
Wurgi, an arms smuggler with international connections, is reportedly related to Bello Turji, a notorious bandit leader, through his grandfather.
His son, Sani Duna, is alleged to act as a getaway biker for Turji, highlighting familial links within the banditry network.
Wurgi’s arrest marks a significant milestone in ongoing efforts to combat terrorism and banditry in the Northwest region.
Wurgi is currently being held at an undisclosed location, while a manhunt is underway for his accomplices
Residents in Sokoto, Kebbi, and Zamfara states have lauded the operation, expressing hope that it will alleviate the long-standing impact of banditry and violence in the region.
Nigerian Army Captures Notorious Bandit Leader, Baka Wurgi Linked to Emir of Gobir’s Murder
Nigeria to Boost Tourism and Cultural Sectors- Musawa
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