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

GEAR UP FOR GREATER RESPONSIBILITIES

Published

13 hours ago

December 25, 2024

Ochuwa Ibrahim

GEAR UP FOR GREATER RESPONSIBILITIES

By: CHIVIR JOEL

Newly decorated officers of the Nigerian Army Intelligence Corps (NAIC), have been told to gear up for greater responsibilities ahead. The Special Guest of Honour (SGOH), at he investiture ceremony which held on 24 December 2024, the Director, Foreign Liaison Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA), Brigadier General Ojogbane Adegbe, gave the charge as he urged newly promoted senior officers of the Corps to step up their game and take on greater responsibilities.

Speaking at the investiture ceremony held at the Brigadier General AU Kuliya Auditorium, Headquarters NAIC, Brigadier General Adegbe emphasized the importance of hard work, diligence and perseverance in their new roles. “I am going to charge you to work hard and be at your best,” Brigadier General Adegbe said. He reminded the officers that their career progression began the day they were commissioned and their promotion is a call to greater challenges and responsibilities. He highlighted the need for continuous self-development, encouraging them to take courses in cyber security and other areas to remain indispensable.

Earlier, the Chief of Military Intelligence (Army), Major General Thompson Ugiagbe who was represented by the Brigadier General David Umaru congratulated the officers on their well-deserved promotions. He expressed confidence in their ability to meet the demands of their new ranks and charged them to be diligent in discharging their duties. He encouraged them to develop their subordinates, as that is the only way NAIC can grow. He also reminded the officers that while the journey ahead is filled with hurdles, their expertise and commitment will see them through.

The event was graced by Brigadier General YU Diri, the Director Psychological Operations DIA, Brig Gen AD Yusuf, the Chief of Staff HQ NAIC among other senior officers of the NAIC, friends and families of the decorated officers.

The event was climaxed with a group photograph.

GEAR UP FOR GREATER RESPONSIBILITIES

National News

ONLY THE BEST OF THE BEST SHOULD DEFEND OUR NATION – CAS AT BMTC 44 PASSING OUT PARADE

Published

4 days ago

December 22, 2024

Ochuwa Ibrahim

ONLY THE BEST OF THE BEST SHOULD DEFEND OUR NATION – CAS AT BMTC 44 PASSING OUT PARADE

By: Kabiru Ali

The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has reaffirmed that the sacred duty of defending Nigeria’s sovereignty is entrusted only to individuals who demonstrate exceptional traits and abilities. He made this assertion today, 21 December 2024, while serving as the Guest of Honour and Reviewing Officer at the Passing Out Parade for Basic Military Training Course 44/2023, held at the Military Training Center (MTC), Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Base in Kaduna.

Speaking further, Air Marshal Abubakar commended the recruits for their perseverance and dedication, emphasising the transformative nature of their training. “Your training was deliberately challenging, moulding you into warriors, tradesmen, and leaders with courage, discipline, and resilience,” he said. “You are now a vital part of the Nigerian Air Force’s mission to safeguard our nation’s sovereignty.”

The CAS urged the newly inducted airmen and airwomen to uphold NAF’s core values of integrity, service before self, and excellence in all they do. He emphasized their responsibility to remain vigilant, respect civilians, and adhere strictly to rules of engagement and social media guidelines, noting that their actions now directly reflect on the esteemed image of the NAF. In his words; “I urge you to operate within the rules of engagement as enumerated in the Code of Conduct for Armed Forces Personnel involved in internal security operations. Respect and protect the innocent and law-abiding civilians whom you are paid to defend. Treat them with respect and protect their rights, as we build a nation where no man is oppressed.”

Air Marshal Abubakar also underscored the pivotal role the new recruits will play in addressing Nigeria’s security challenges, noting that many will be deployed to operational theatres and internal security operations. He urged them to embrace opportunities for continuous training and self development to enhance their professional growth and operational effectiveness. The CAS stated, “You are therefore called to a life of selfless service, and the efforts you make on the field will play a vital role in shaping the future of the Nigerian Air Force, strengthening the security of our nation, and ensuring its continued prosperity.” He further added, “Some of you will subsequently be deployed to operational theatres or internal security operations to contribute your quota to our national security.”

The CAS expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, for his unwavering commitment to addressing the operational, logistical, and welfare needs of the NAF. He remarked, “The President’s steadfast support enables us to perform our duties to the highest standards in service to our nation. I assure Mr President of our unalloyed loyalty and total commitment to his Agenda for a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria.” He also acknowledged the hospitality and support of the Governor and people of Kaduna State, as well as the collaboration of other security agencies in fostering a conducive environment for training.

The ceremony celebrated the successful completion of 6 months of intensive training by 1,190 airmen and airwomen. This latest batch of trainees were commended for their resilience, discipline, and determination in meeting the high standards required to join the NAF. The event was attended by dignitaries, families, and representatives from various security agencies. It also served as an occasion to recognise the efforts of the Air Officer Commanding Ground Training Command and the Commandant of the Military Training Centre, whose commitment to high-quality training was pivotal in shaping the recruits into capable airmen and airwomen.

As the newly inducted airmen and airwomen embark on their careers, they are expected to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, discipline, and dedication in service to Nigeria. The ceremony concluded with a resounding call for them to wear their uniforms with pride, serve with honour, and contribute to the peace and security of the nation. Immediately after the elaborate parade, an Oath Taking Ceremony was held where the new airmen and airwomen pledged their absolute loyalty to the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The CAS, before departing Kaduna State, took the opportunity to assess the progress of construction work on the new Air Force Secondary School (Day School). He also commissioned a newly constructed classroom block dedicated to children with special needs at the NAFOWA Little Angels Nursery and Primary School. The project was built by the Nigerian Air Force Officers’ Wives Association under the leadership of its National President, Architect Dr Rakiya Abubakar.

ONLY THE BEST OF THE BEST SHOULD DEFEND OUR NATION – CAS AT BMTC 44 PASSING OUT PARADE

National News

FG Expresses Commitment to Enhancing Operations of Waste Pickers in the Country

Published

6 days ago

December 20, 2024

Ochuwa Ibrahim

FG Expresses Commitment to Enhancing Operations of Waste Pickers in the Country

By: Michael Mike

The Federal Government on Thursday said it is committed to enhancing the operations of waste pickers in the country by formalizing their operational framework in the informal economy in a more inclusive way.

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, stated this in his remarks during the presentation of the research report on the Waste Pickers Economy in Nigeria tagged: “Formalizing the Informal Waste Picker Economy for Sustainable Development in Nigeria.”

The workshop was organized by the Institute of Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) in collaboration with renowned agency -INCLUDE in Abuja on Thursday, to boost the waste pickers to enhance social protection, promote decent work, and address environmental challenges facing them through informed policy direction.

The Minister, who was represented by the Director Economy, Trade & Investment in the ministry, Ambassador Bolaji Akinremi,
emphasized the importance of the research in highlighting the contributions of waste pickers, adding that it has broader implications for Nigeria’s national and international development goals.

The minister while commending the IPCR for the research, said: “The findings from this research are timely and significant, particularly as we continue to pursue policies that foster inclusive economic growth, social harmony, and environmental sustainability.”

He added that: “Waste pickers, often working in informal and precarious conditions, are a crucial part of Nigeria’s waste management ecosystem. They contribute to the recycling industry, reduce the burden on landfills, and generate livelihoods for millions of individuals. Yet, despite the value they provide to our society, their work is frequently marginalized, and their contributions go largely unrecognized.

“This report helps to fill that gap and provides an opportunity for all of us—government, civil society, and the private sector—to better understand the challenges and opportunities within this sector.”

The minister further said that: “This research presents a unique opportunity to engage with our international partners, NGOs, and multilateral organizations to create global dialogue and exchange best practices in waste management, workers’ rights, and economic inclusion.”

On his part, the Director General of IPCR, Dr. Joseph Ochogwu said the workshop is an important step toward understanding and addressing the challenges faced by one of the most overlooked yet crucial groups in the society—the informal waste pickers.

He added that: “These individuals play a crucial role in bridging the recycling gap, contributing an impressive 59.3% of waste collection and management across the country, while formal systems account for just 4.7%. Their efforts not only help reduce environmental waste but also support the circular economy, generating jobs and economic opportunities at multiple levels.”

He however lamented that despite these vital contributions, waste pickers remain some of the most marginalized, stigmatized, and criminalized members of our society. He added that waste pickers are not mere collectors but enablers of a recycling system that supports industries and reduces pressure on landfills, thereby adding tremendous value to both our economy and environment.

“Beyond their economic and environmental contributions, this research enhances our understanding of informal economies. It documents the lived experiences of waste pickers and provides a framework for integrating them into formal systems. By doing so, we can improve their dignity, safety, and livelihoods while aligning their work with Nigeria’s broader sustainability and development goals,” he noted.

FG Expresses Commitment to Enhancing Operations of Waste Pickers in the Country