NGO Hosts Awareness Walk to End Gender-Based Violence

Date: 2024-12-13

As cases of domestic violence and drug abuse continue to rise, a non-governmental organization, The Nurture Place for Drug Harm Reduction, has stepped forward to tackle these pressing issues through advocacy and action, as reported by the Nigerian Tribune.

Led by harm reduction advocate Ms. Oluwatosin Awe, the organization hosted a drug harm reduction and human rights awareness walk in Ilorin to commemorate International Human Rights Day 2024 and the conclusion of the 16-day activism campaign against gender violence.

The event, which saw over 100 participants, began at the Ilorin Post Office and concluded at the Kwara State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development. It was supported by key agencies, including the First Lady's Office, the Kwara State Ministry of Health, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), and the Kwara State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development.

Ms. Oluwatosin Awe, convener of The Nurture Place, emphasized the campaign's theme, “Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now.” She stated, “Today, we come together to mark International Human Rights Day and the end of the 16-Day Campaign Against Gender Violence. Gender-based violence is a grave injustice that perpetuates fear, inequality, and silence. We must confront it with actions that protect survivors and hold perpetrators accountable.”

Ms. Awe also highlighted the intersection of harm reduction and human rights. “Harm reduction guarantees access to healthcare, support services, and dignity for marginalized groups, including drug users, who often face stigma and discrimination. This approach prioritizes safety and well-being over punitive measures,” she added. She called for policies to address systemic oppression and promote inclusive solutions.

Representing the board of directors, Mr. Olawale Yakubu stressed the need to prioritize harm reduction as a fundamental human right. “Harm reduction is more than a strategy; it's a commitment to dignity, safety, and the well-being of the most vulnerable in our communities,” he said. He urged stakeholders in Kwara State to create systems that protect lives and uphold citizens' rights.

Outreach Coordinator Adebiyi Adeyinka highlighted the role of men and boys in ending gender-based violence. “GBV is a global crisis that requires everyone to step up. Men, boys, and allies must play active roles in building safer, more equitable communities for all women,” he stated.

Pamilerin Ogundare, Director of Programs for The Nurture Place, emphasized the broader importance of human rights in fostering peace and stability. “When people's rights are protected and promoted, we pave the way for a brighter future and a more equitable world. Today, we reaffirm our commitment to speaking out against GBV and supporting those who face stigma and discrimination,” he said.

Representatives from the NDLEA highlighted the link between drug abuse and violence, noting the importance of sensitization campaigns. “Drug abuse and violence are interconnected issues affecting our communities. By raising awareness, we can address these challenges while promoting respect and care for all individuals,” they said.

Alhaja Ishola who doubled as the representative of the First Lady and Kwara State Commissioner for Women Affairs, spoke about the ongoing efforts to combat GBV in the state. “Gender-based violence is a painful reality for many Nigerians. We are committed to breaking this cycle by challenging harmful beliefs, amplifying survivors' voices, and ensuring justice is served. Reporting incidents is critical for keeping everyone safe,” she noted.

The walk featured participants carrying banners with messages such as “Say No to Gender-Based Violence” and “Human Rights for All,” symbolizing solidarity in the fight for justice and equality.

Ms. Awe reiterated the importance of community-driven efforts in addressing societal issues. “Harm reduction bridges the gap between addressing drug abuse and protecting human rights. Our walk today represents our resolve to build a society where everyone can live freely, safely, and empowered,” she said.

As the event concluded, participants expressed hope for a future where human rights and harm reduction are central to societal development. The Nurture Place reaffirmed its mission to create healthier, more compassionate communities through advocacy, education, and policy change.

 


Cloud Tag: What's trending

Click on a word/phrase to read more about it.

Adekunle David Dunmade     Dele Belgore     Awodun     Jawondo     Ibrahim Issa Jetti     Segun Ogunsola     Yetunde Balogun     All Confederation Of Principals Of Secondary Schools     Falokun-Oja     Ile Arugbo     Kayode Alabi     Ahmed Bolaji Nagode     Adegoke Bamidele     Federal Allocation     Akume     Kwara State Sports Commission     Adeleke Ogungbe     Saliu Ajibola Ajia     Ayodele Kuburat Olaosebikan     Aliyu Kora Sabi     Women For Change And Development Initiative     Amuda Bembe     Gaa Olobi     Samari     Convocation Ceremonies     Abdulrauf Yusuf     Ogbondoroko     Suleiman Mora Omar     Sidikat Alaya     Sobi Specialist Hospital     Abdulrahman Abdulrasak     Maigidasanma     Sola Saraki Educational Foundation     Academic Staff Union Of Universities     Simeon Ajibola     Idris Garba     Saka Isau     Muhammed Mahe Abdulkadir     Okedare     KW-GIS     Islamic Development Bank     Doyin Awoyale     Www.Kwarareports.com     Amina Susa\'a De Ahmed     CLAY POT     Just Law Forum     Ibrahim Oniye     Amuda Musbau     Nagode     Sheikh Ariyibi     Saliu Alamoyo     Ojuekun     High Court     Baakini     Bamidele Adegoke     All Peoples Party     Bayo Ajia     Ayekale     Amosa     Abdulkadir Remi Hawawu     Aliyu Muhammed     Rapheal Ashaolu     Oloruntoyosi Thomas     Amos Sayo     Kayode Ogunlowo     Tunji Moronfoye     Musa Abdullahi     IYA ALFA NLA     Lai Mohammed     Fatai Olodo     Femi Gbajabiamila     Sulaiman Gado     Offorjama     Onilorin Of Ilorin     Sulyman Buhari     Dorcas Afeniforo     Folashade Omoniyi    

Cloud Tag: What's trending

Click on a word/phrase to read more about it.

Ajasse-Ipo     Kwarareports.com     Ali Ahmad     Baboko Primary School     Suleiman Abubakar     Cassava Growers\' Association     Alabe     Ohoro Of Shao     Jumoke Gafar     MMWG     Idi-Ape     PAACO-PCL Consortium     Mufutau Gbadamosi Esuwoye     Afonja     Offorjama     Tafida     Ahmed Bayero     NSCIA     Abiodun Abdulkareem     Radio SBS     Doyin Awoyale     SSA Youth Engagement     Joseph Offorjama     3MTT     Abubakar Bature Sulu-Gambari     Olabanji Orilonishe     Admiralty Villa     Sabo-Oke     Adamu B. Yaqubu     Sheikh Ridhwanullah El-ilory     Shehu Alimi Foundation For Peace And Development     Maja     Bareke     Kulende     Kwara Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board     Aso Ofi     Peter Obi     AGM Professional Services     Yusuf Abdulwahab     Nagode     Aminu Adisa Logun     Halimat Yusuf     Kolo     Bolakale Saka     Ndama Al-hassan     Elerin Of Erin-Ile     Mohammed Saidu     Kehinde Baale     Yahya Mohammed     Olubukola Kifayat Adedeji     Esinrogunjo     Yahaya A Paniyaro     Afin Descendants Union Of Odo-Owa     Ilorin West     Musa Yeketi     T And K FOODS     Ilorin East/South Federal Constituency     Ahmed Bolaji Nagode     Oju Ekun Sarumi     Bolaji Abdullahi     Ahmad Belgore     Share/Tsaragi     Garba Dogo     Emmanuel Bello     Saad Belgore     Ike Ekweremadu     Sunday Fagbemi     Women For Change And Development Initiative     Sanitation Exercise     Oro Grammar School     Kola Adesina     Ibrahim Abiodun     Tinubu     Ishaq Abdulkarim     Abubakar Atiku     Ope Saraki     Olatunde Oyeyiola