By Joy Baba-Yesufu
NSCDC moves to curb SGBV in schools, workplace and society The Nigeria security and Civil Defense Corp (NSCDC) said it has put together measures to ensure that all forms of Sexual and Gender Based violence (SGBV) is brought to its barest minimum in schools, work place and the society at large.
Commandant General (CG) of the NSCDC, Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, made this known at the corp headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday during the maiden National women conference and capacity building for NSCDC and the launch of “Say no to SGBV” club in schools.
He said the theme for the conference “Enhancing Capacity and Mainstreaming Gender Effectively within and beyond the Workplace” resonates deeply with the pressing need to enhance capacity, not only within the workplace but also in every sphere of life.
Audi maintained that beyond the workplace, the impact of gender mainstreaming must be felt in every community, institution, and household adding that empowerment of women and the eradication of SGBV are not isolated objectives but interconnected pillars in his vision for a more just and equitable society.
According to the CG “Education plays a pivotal role in shaping our perspectives, and by launching the SGBV Club in schools, we are taking a crucial step towards fostering a culture of respect, understanding and empathy. Our schools must become spaces where young minds are nurtured to reject violence, discrimination, and inequality.
“In the workplace, we must strive to break down barriers that hinder the professional growth of women. Equal pay, equal opportunities, and a supportive work environment are not mere ideals; they are essential elements of a just and progressive society.
“We must recognize that the empowerment of women is not just a moral imperative but a strategic one. The contributions of women to our societies, economies, and cultures are immeasurable, and it is in our collective interest to ensure that every woman has the opportunity to thrive.
“The SGBV Club is not just an initiative; it is a movement. It is a collective effort to educate, empower, and create a generation that will stand against any form of gender-based violence. Through education and awareness, we can dismantle the stereotypes and norms that perpetuate violence, and we can build a society where every woman and girl, men and boys can live without fear”
In his address, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume said SGBV is not only committed against women and girls; men and boys have equally been victims of such nefarious practices adding that women are however more disproportionately at risk of exposure to the social menace compared to their male counterparts.
He said Goal 5 of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) emphasizes the need to promote gender equality and women empowerment noting that for this to be achieved, women have to be seen as people in their rights, rather than as objects of exploitation, marginalization, or abuse.
