Gender violence: Care Nigeria empowers 125,000, resolves 1,190 cases in 2 years

The CARE Nigeria has said it empowered over 125,000 people with necessary requirements to tackle Gender Based Violence (GBV) and other related issues in parts of the country. The Interim Country Director of CARE Nigeria, Jennifer Orgle, said this in Abuja during the project closeout and dissemination workshop of the Strengthening Protection Services and Resilience […]

The CARE Nigeria has said it empowered over 125,000 people with necessary requirements to tackle Gender Based Violence (GBV) and other related issues in parts of the country.

The Interim Country Director of CARE Nigeria, Jennifer Orgle, said this in Abuja during the project closeout and dissemination workshop of the Strengthening Protection Services and Resilience in Northeast Nigeria (STEPSERN).

Ms Orgle said the project piloted innovative models that have strengthened protection systems, challenged deeply rooted social norms that perpetuate gender-based violence, and empowered women to take on leadership roles in their communities.

According to her, the project was carried out in Borno, Adamawa and Yobe states in collaboration with other stakeholders including community gatekeepers, government and civil society actors among others.

“Since August 2023, CARE Nigeria, through the generous support of the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, has implemented the STEPSERN project across the BAY states.”

“In partnership with EYN and NEEM Foundation, the project has reached over 125,480 people and managed and closed 1,190 GBV cases. Together, we piloted innovative models that have strengthened protection systems, challenged deeply rooted social norms that perpetuate gender-based violence, and empowered women to take on leadership roles in their communities.

“Our collective efforts have improved access to dignified health, protection, and livelihood services, and fostered community ownership for sustainability. Over the past 19 months, we have witnessed a quiet revolution; women and girls breaking stereotypes, stepping into leadership roles, and becoming powerful voices for change,” Orgle said.

On her part, the Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, commended the organisation for collaborating with the government to reduce gender based violence and empowering women and girls.

The Minister, represented by the Director of Gender Affairs of the Ministry, Mallam Adamu Samaila, said the project strengthened women’s voice and protection delivery in various communities.

She urged CARE Nigeria to ensure the sustainability of the achievements and lessons learnt from the project.