Stephen Enoch
The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) Kano Zonal Office, in partnership with the Society for Family Health (SFH), on Thursday held a capacity-building workshop for first responders of Gender Violence (GBV) in Kano state to commemorate the 16 days of activism.
The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) is an annual international campaign aimed at raising awareness and sparking action to end violence against women and girls.
In an interview with Stallion Times, Abdullahi Babale, Zonal Commander of NAPTIP, who spoke on the theme “Towards Beijing +30: Unite to End Violence Against Women and Girls,” said the agency has empowered 15 survivors of GBV between the ages of 8 and 13 with essential kits to help them rebuild their lives.
He noted the agency succeeded in securing convictions against perpetrators.
“In the last two months, we have convicted 10 individuals involved in GBV.
“However, proactive community engagement is crucial. Without the community’s reporting, we cannot address these issues effectively.”
Rukayyah Mohammed, Social and Social Change Advisor with the Society for Family Health (SFH) emphasized the role of first responders in protecting GBV victims.
She stressed the importance of maintaining the victim’s anonymity to prevent stigmatization.
“First responders must ensure that the identity of the victim is protected. Respecting the victim’s decisions is vital unless it is a matter of public interest or serious health issues.
“GBV victims should also be treated with respect and dignity as it will help them mentally and aid in their recovery process,” she stated.
Aminu Yahaya, GBV Officer at George Town Global Health Nigeria (GHN), shed more light on the cultural barriers hindering GBV reporting, particularly in northern Nigeria.
“Our goal is to reduce GBV cases in Kano through extensive enlightenment campaigns.
“GBV affects not only women but men too. The culture of silence is prevalent in this region, and we are encouraging people to speak out because silence will not solve the problem.”
One of the beneficiaries, Sani Uba, whose 13-year-old daughter was sexually harassed, expressed gratitude for the support provided by NAPTIP and SFH.
“It is important for parents to speak out when their children report violations. My daughter was violated, and I took the appropriate steps to seek justice.
“Keeping quiet will not help,” Uba said, urging other parents to break the silence around GBV.
The stakeholders called for stronger community involvement and underscored the need for continued advocacy to end violence against women and girls in the state.
