National News

UN calls for united effort to end GBV

Published

3 years ago

November 25, 2021

News Net Global

UN calls for united effort to end GBV

By: Michael Mike, Abuja

The United Nations has reiterated the need to join forces to create awareness and education in eliminating and ending the scourge of Gender Based Violence from every nook and crannies of Nigeria.

Speaking in Abuja on Thursday at 7th Network Conference of Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs) in Nigeria with the theme: “The Imperative for Special SGBV Curts” organised by the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (ROLAC) Programme in collaboration with Ministry of Justice, FCT Judiciary and the National Agency for Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), UN- Women Country Representative, Comfort Lamptey noted that there is urgent need for all stakeholders to join hands together to put an end to the scourge of Gender Based Violence in the country.

Lamptey noted that this year marks 30years since the start of the 16 days activism campaign, reiterating that globally one in three women have been abused sexualy and in Nigeria 28% of women have been abused before the age 49 in one form of violence.

She also noted that 16% of women and girls have experienced this from spouses and home as in times of crisis the number rises.

She revealed that: “During the first month of the lockdown directive a-five fold increase was recorded of GBV, one in four women feel unsafe at home, since the onset of COVID-19, outside the home women also feel increasingly unsafe.

“This is a wake up call for solving the problem at its root, while this problem remains pervasive, it is not preventable.

Preventive methods are critical to end GBV; it requires a commitment from all of us to work against the harmful practices that sustain gender inequality.”

She said: “More men need to step-up to form forces with some right advocates, through the UNWomen joint spotlight initiative to engage stakeholders in community, traditional rulers to address some of the patriarchal norms that encourage gender inequality.

“Provide a comprehensive support system that will help survivor centered services which include police, justice, and social sectors As well as sufficient financing for women are essential ingredients to the fight against GBV.”

Lamptey noted that: “The past two years in Nigeria have experienced progress on the domestication of the VAPP act to law since it was passed in 2015, with a total of 30 states out of 36 in Nigeria, this commendable feat was achieved by the declaration of a state of emergency on GBV by the Nigerian Governor Forum in 2020.

“We need to ensure that federal and state governments ensure that GBV survivors have full access to justice, with reliable prosecution of perpetrators.”

She asked that: “Put women at the center of responses Including the policy situation solutions, strengthen services including justice for women who experience violence and invest in prevention efforts to end Violence Against Women and Girls.”

On her part, the minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Dame Pauline Tallen, quoting statistic disclosed that, the National Situation Room and Dashboard set up in the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs under the UN/EU Spotlight initiative targeting six states supported by UNDP as at 24th November 2021, totaled number of cases reported to be 5,204 of which 3,125 survivors are demanding justice and only 33 perpetrators have so far been convicted, representing 0.51 percent.

She lamented that the fatal cases are 160, closed cases 231, while open cases (cases pending in court) are 972.

The minister noted that the trend is unacceptable, and efforts will be intensified with the Federal Ministry of Justice to ensure justice for victims and survivors.

She said: “The present administration under the leadership of President Muhammadu Buhari, has demonstrated high commitment not only to eliminate harmful practices against women and girls; but also, to curb the rampaging impact of COVID-19 pandemic and other SGBV.

” In light of this, a significant amount in our 2022 budget has been dedicated to fight Gender Based-Violence nationwide. Mr. President in his 2022 Budget Statement to the National Assembly has gone a step further to direct that Ministries, Departments and Agencies must devote some amount in their budgets to address gender-related issues”

She however implored all relevant ministries to engage, amplify advocacy to the states and rural communities for further enlightenment in this regard.

Also speaking in the same vein, the Ambassador, Delegation of the European Union to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Samuela Isopi identified impunity as fuel for GBV.

She said: “This type of violence remains largely unreported due to the stigma and shame surrounding it, and the lack of confidence in authorities. As a result, many perpetrators remain free and unpunished. Impunity contributes to fuel GBV.

“Impunity contribute to fuel SGBV, if we do not stop impunity, we may not be able to stop GBV, government has a critical role in maintaining and sustaining of the separate court for it to succeed, the government needs to take ownership of this court by allocating resources to address the need of the people,”she said.

Also Read: EU and its Partners Mobilise against SGBV

The Chief Justice of the Federation, Honourable Justice Ibrahim Muhammad, said in creating special court we need to have trained judges and this is alot of work. This is an issue that takes more than talking, things must be in place, when we have everything set then we can start talking of special courts.

Represented by Justice Amina Audi Muhammad, the Chief Justice is of the view that “before we go advocating for special courts we need to put in place all other structures that will make this succeed.

He said. “Rural areas need to have a gender desk of institutions with specialised personnel to attend to vulnerable victims, the first contact for victims need to be able to bring them out of despair.”

Danladi Plang, National Programme Manager, Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) Programme emphasised on the need for critical actors to collaborate, in the fight as well as provide platform for experts to identify policy option, legal innovation, best practices, process for the establishment, and modalities for operation.

According to her: “For many years,there have been calls for the prosecution of cases of SGBV, in separate courts, it is for this reason RoLAC is campaigning this year for separate judicial process.

She said: “The main objective of this conference is to identify policy options, recommendations and action for efficient disposal of rights of victims and mobilise relevant actors.

She said from last year a lot has happened as most states have domesticated the VAPP law, and now have more SARC, adding,about 32 have been created with the latest being in Kebbi state.

She said: “Of course more victims and survivors are being supported by the Centers, as at June this year we have about 21,000 survivors that are supported, in the last eight years out of this 21,000 about 6,900 are being cared for by the SARC, which represents about 30% of survivors.

“There is a serious consensus that the prosecution of offenders is key even as the cases reported are very few, there is a disproportionate higher number of victims to the perpetrators, and of course they deserve justice, as different as they may be.”

UN calls for united effort to end GBV

National News

NIDCOM Boss Congratulates Amanda Azubuike on Promotion to Brigadier General in US Army

Published

2 days ago

February 2, 2025

Ochuwa Ibrahim

NIDCOM Boss Congratulates Amanda Azubuike on Promotion to Brigadier General in US Army

By: Michael Mike

Chairman/CEO, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa has congratulated Amanda Azubuike on her historic promotion to Brigadier General in the United States Army.

In a statement issued by the Commission’s Head, Media, Public Relations and Protocols, Abdur-Rahman Balogun on Sunday, Dabiri-Erewa lauded Azubuike’s remarkable achievement as a testament to her dedication, resilience, and exceptional service.

Born in London to a Nigerian father and a Zimbabwean mother, Azubuike’s journey is a source of pride for Nigerians worldwide.

She joined the U.S. Army in 1994, becoming an aviator after completing the Army Aviation Officer Basic Course.

Over her distinguished career, she has held pivotal roles, including serving as a platoon leader, flight operations officer, and public affairs officer. She currently serves as Deputy Commanding Officer at the U.S. Army Cadet Command.

Dabiri-Erewa emphasized the significance of Azubuike’s promotion, stating, “Amanda’s elevation to Brigadier General not only shatters glass ceilings but also highlights the invaluable contributions of Nigerians in the diaspora to global advancements.”

The NiDCOM Chairman urged Nigerians worldwide to draw inspiration from Azubuike’s accomplishment, reinforcing the importance of perseverance and excellence in their respective endeavours.

NIDCOM Boss Congratulates Amanda Azubuike on Promotion to Brigadier General in US Army

National News

VP Shettima launches 6th MSME Clinic, announces unconditional grant of N300,000 for each Borno Entrepreneurs

Published

7 days ago

January 28, 2025

Ochuwa Ibrahim

VP Shettima launches 6th MSME Clinic, announces unconditional grant of N300,000 for each Borno Entrepreneurs

…MSME the only way to strengthen the resilience of our people – Zulum

By: Our Reporter

Borno State entrepreneurs participating in the 6th Expanded National MSME Clinics and Fashion Hub will receive an unconditional grant of N300,000 each to support and enhance their businesses.

This was announced by Vice President, Kashim Shettima, during the official opening of the event on Tuesday at the Government House in Maiduguri, Borno State.

Senator Shettima revealed that each of the outstanding Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) that participated in the exhibition would be eligible for the N300,000 grant. “I am pleased to announce on behalf of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, that an unconditional grant of N300,000 will be awarded to each outstanding MSME exhibiting at today’s clinic,” he stated.

The Vice President further explained that the Borno State centre is part of the ongoing national initiative to establish Expanded National MSME Clinics across the country. He assured that the grants are non-repayable, reflecting the Federal Government’s commitment to supporting the success and sustainability of small businesses in the region.

Senator Shettima also highlighted the newly inaugurated Borno State Fashion Hub, which he said has the capacity to create up to 48,000 jobs annually, describing it as a significant step towards enhancing the MSME ecosystem in the state, particularly in the fashion industry.

“This hub is among the largest ever established by the Federal Government, equipped with state-of-the-art facilities to support the fashion manufacturing cluster in Borno State,” he added.

In a remark, Governor of Borno State, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, noted that his administration has adopted an inclusive approach to support small and medium scale businesses, recognising it as essential to strengthening resilience amid the challenges faced by MSMEs.

Governor Zulum acknowledged that MSMEs in Borno State have faced severe hardships due to the prolonged insurgency and the broader economic challenges in the country.

“The MSME Clinic will revitalise business activities in Borno State, create employment opportunities, and increase income sources for our people,” Governor Zulum said.

“Our government is committed to providing more opportunities for our people to expand their income sources.”

Governor Zulum also outlined several initiatives by his administration, including the disbursement of soft loans to empower entrepreneurs, the construction of modern markets, the establishment of vocational training institutions, and the renovation of skill acquisition centres damaged during the insurgency.

The Governor expressed optimism that the MSME Clinics would focus on five key areas: funding, skill development, infrastructure, access to markets, and technology. Additionally, the clinics will provide business registration, training, and mentorship services to help entrepreneurs grow their businesses.

“The expansion of this Clinic is not just a project; it is a demonstration of our belief in the creativity and resilience of the entrepreneurs in Borno State and Nigeria. When MSMEs thrive, they create jobs, reduce poverty, and drive innovation across sectors,” Governor Zulum said.

“These strategies are designed to address challenges and unlock the full potential of our entrepreneurial systems.”

Governor Zulum also urged entrepreneurs and business owners to fully utilise the resources provided by the MSME Clinic to grow their businesses, enhance their skills, and explore new opportunities.

Before the programme, Vice President Kashim Shettima commissioned the Borno State Fashion Hub at the defunct Kashim Ibrahim College of Education and WEMA Bank partnership branch.

Dignitaries that accompanied the VP include the minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, Minister of State Industry, Senator John Owan Enoh and Senior Special Assistant to the President on Job Creation and MSMES, Temitola Adekunle-Johnson.

VP Shettima launches 6th MSME Clinic, announces unconditional grant of N300,000 for each Borno Entrepreneurs

National News

2.5 million Daily Egg Production Farm Underway in Nigeria

Published

1 week ago

January 27, 2025

Ochuwa Ibrahim

2.5 million Daily Egg Production Farm Underway in Nigeria

By: Michael Mike

A 2.5 million eggs per-day production poultry farm is to be built in Nigeria by the China Communications Construction Company (CCCC).

This is one of the major highlights of the ongoing visit led by the Director-General of the NCSP, Joseph Tegbe to China.

According to a statement on Monday, the delegation at a meeting with Chilwee Group scored a significant mileage during a visit to the China Communications Construction Company (CCCC) Headquarters, where they explored opportunities for replicating a 2.5 million eggs-per-day production poultry farm in Nigeria using innovative funding models.

The statement read: “The Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership (NCSP) has made significant strides in strengthening bilateral relations and promoting economic cooperation between Nigeria and China. Recent agreements and investments in the energy, technology, and manufacturing sectors are poised to drive Nigeria’s socio-economic transformation.

“At the forefront of these developments is the agreement between the NCSP and Chilwee Group, a prominent Chinese manufacturer of cutting-edge batteries and power storage solutions. This agreement is expected to enhance Nigeria’s energy security, promote renewable energy, and reduce carbon emissions. Chilwee Group has committed to investing in Nigeria through a multifaceted approach, including sales, manufacturing, and potentially mining raw materials for the power storage value chain.

“In addition to the agreement with Chilwee Group, the NCSP has also made significant progress in other areas. During a recent visit to China, the Director-General of the NCSP, Joseph Tegbe, led a delegation to the China Communications Construction Company (CCCC) Headquarters, where they explored opportunities for replicating a 2.5 million eggs-per-day production poultry farm in Nigeria using innovative funding models.

“Also, the NCSP facilitated a tripartite agreement between CPL Medical group, CSSC Haishen Medical Technology Co Ltd and China Habour Engineering Company over the renovation and upgrading of equipment in selected teaching hospitals across the country. While speaking at the agreement signing ceremony, Tegbe noted that the agreement represented an example of private-sector collaboration which the partnership hopes to promote.

The statement also revealed that the NCSP delegation also visited China Electronic Corporation, where Tegbe expressed optimism about cooperation between Nigeria and China in areas such as electronics equipment, public security surveillance, and identity management. He emphasized the potential for collaboration, stating that he has President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s mandate to identify top-priority projects that will drive Nigeria’s industrialization.

The NCSP delegation was also at Huawei, where they discussed opportunities for collaboration in the ICT sector, including training programmes and the deployment of smart city models. With the imminent deployment of the smart city model presented by Huawei to President Tinubu in Beijing, Nigeria is set to reap the benefits of the investments of Huawei in Nigeria and her partnership with the Tinubu-led administration.

These benefits include smart, qualitative education, better healthcare delivery, enhanced communications technology, improved security infrastructure, and digitalization of key government facilities. The NCSP also met with representatives from Loong UAV, a global leader in tactical drone solutions, to explore opportunities for cooperation in the field of drone technology.

The cooperation with Loong UAV is expected to bolster Nigeria’s domestic capabilities in drone technology, facilitating access to essential services and commodities in remote or hard-to-reach regions. This innovative use of drones could significantly enhance Nigeria’s logistical capabilities, creating new opportunities for economic growth and development.

According to the statement: “Overall, these agreements and investments demonstrate the NCSP’s commitment to driving Nigeria’s socio-economic transformation through targeted Chinese investments. By focusing on creating value-driven partnerships, strengthening Nigeria’s role in Africa’s industrialization, and coordinating initiatives that align with Nigeria’s Renewed Hope Agenda and China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), the NCSP is poised to unlock new opportunities for economic growth and development in Nigeria.”

2.5 million Daily Egg Production Farm Underway in Nigeria