Abuja: The Women Affairs Secretariat of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has announced efforts to develop a community-led response model aimed at eradicating Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and other harmful practices. This initiative was highlighted by the Mandate Secretary, Dr. Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi, during a strategic engagement involving the Wives of FCT Traditional Rulers Association (WOFCTTRA) and the Ford Foundation.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Benjamins-Laniyi emphasized that the initiative is bolstered by partnerships with regional and international bodies, including the European Union and UN Women. The model, once successful, is expected to be expanded to the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria, incorporating legal frameworks, royal support, and community-level mobilization. The involvement of traditional rulers and their spouses is seen as crucial for institutionalizing the initiative within communities.
The engagement with the Ford Foundation focused on addressing harmful cultural practices such as Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), breast pressing, and the killing of twins and triplets. Broader issues like GBV, reproductive rights, and women’s autonomy were also discussed. Despite past efforts to abolish these practices, they continue to persist in certain communities within the FCT.
Dr. Izeduwa Derex-Briggs, Programme Officer at the Ford Foundation, West Africa, pointed out that mere legislation would not suffice to change cultural norms. A mindset shift among the people is crucial, with positive examples from other regions potentially influencing change. Derex-Briggs highlighted the ineffectiveness of laws without accompanying education and cultural reorientation.
On the topic of women’s reproductive rights, Derex-Briggs discussed the pressure on women to have numerous children, often at the risk of their own lives, describing this as “reproductive coercion.” She advocated for community-driven interventions to address harmful norms, suggesting internal dialogues to build consensus on challenging these norms.
Hajiya Hauwa Adamu, President of WOFCTTRA, expressed confidence in the group’s social capital to lead change from within. She emphasized the importance of collaboration with development partners like the Ford Foundation to provide structure and resources, ensuring safety and autonomy for women and children.
