Be determined, focus, Minister counsels GBV survivors

The Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Imaan Ibrahim Sulaiman, has advised Gender-Based Violence (GBV) survivors to embrace courage, resilience, and work hard to improve themselves by seeking out ideas and opportunities to become better individuals in life.

The Minister also urged the survivors to put their traumatic experiences behind them and move forward.

According to a statement signed by Bintu Nuhu Yakasai, Director of Public Enlightenment at the Kano State Ministry of Women Affairs, Children, and Disabled, the Minister made this known during an empowerment program for GBV survivors in Kano.

The statement reads: The Minister urged the survivors to refrain from self-blame and isolation. She emphasized that they are not responsible for the violence inflicted upon them. Instead, she encouraged them to focus on rebuilding their lives and striving for a brighter future.

In her message of hope and resilience, she urged them to align with the Federal Government’s vision of creating a society where women and girls can thrive, free from violence and discrimination.

According to her, to achieve this vision, the Minister stated that the government has established various initiatives, including the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) and the Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs).

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She assured the survivors of the Federal Government’s commitment to supporting them, adding that this assurance is part of the government’s broader efforts to combat GBV and promote the well-being of women and girls across Nigeria.

Earlier, the Kano State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Children, and Disabled, Hajiya Aisha Lawan Saji Rano, highlighted the challenges faced by GBV survivors in the state and emphasized the importance of a multi-sectoral approach to combating GBV. Commissioner Rano also stressed the need for increased awareness and sensitization about GBV, particularly in rural areas.

The Minister’s visit culminated in a thoughtful gesture of support for the survivors of gender-based violence, with donations of essential items and cash to demonstrate the government’s commitment to their well-being and empowerment.

The event, which coincided with Nigeria’s participation in the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, served as a testament to the government’s dedication to addressing the plight of GBV survivors and promoting a safer, more equitable society for all.