The Kwara State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening response systems aimed at ending Gender-Based Violence, as part of efforts to accelerate women's development and empowerment across the state.

According to a statement issued on Tuesday by the Press Secretary of the Ministry of Women Affairs, Iyanu Lawal, the renewed push aligns with activities marking the 2026 International Women's Day celebration.

The Commissioner for Women Affairs, Chief (Mrs) Opeyemi Afolashade, said the theme of this year's celebration, "Accelerated Action: Empowering Women, Strengthening Communities," underscores the urgency required in advancing women's rights and inclusion in all sectors.

"Women development and empowerment is not just a gender issue but a development priority that requires immediate and collective action," she said.

She added that global evidence has consistently shown that empowering women leads to stronger economies, stable families, inclusive governance, and thriving communities.

"When women are empowered, communities prosper, economies grow stronger, families become more stable, and governance becomes more responsive," Afolashade stated.

The Commissioner reiterated the commitment of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq to eliminating all forms of GBV through strengthened response mechanisms, improved support for survivors, intensified public awareness campaigns, and collaboration with stakeholders to ensure enforcement of relevant laws.

"We are committed to ending all forms of Gender-Based Violence by strengthening response systems, supporting survivors, expanding awareness campaigns, and ensuring accountability for perpetrators," she said.

She disclosed that the state has reviewed its Action Plan on the elimination of Female Genital Mutilation, inaugurated a State Technical Working Group on GBV in partnership with the United Nations Population Fund, and paid counterpart funding for the Nigeria for Women Programme-Scale Up Project.

Afolashade added that the government continues to support women economically through the Kwara State Social Investment Programme.

The Commissioner also commended the First Lady of Kwara State, Ambassador Professor Olufolake AbdulRazaq, for her sustained support for women through skills acquisition programmes, start-up grants, and the establishment of the Ajike People's Support Centre.

Stakeholders at the event also lauded the government's efforts. The Emir of Shonga, represented by Hon. Umar Shaba, described women as key drivers of economic growth when adequately empowered.

Similarly, the Olojoku of Ojoku, represented by Sir Ayodele Sijuwole, urged women to support one another in achieving their goals, while the Alangua Adewole, Alhaji Yusuf Yakubu, emphasised that empowering women is essential to nation-building.

In his goodwill message, the Chief Executive Officer of Save The Future of Children Initiative, Mr Olufemi Oyedeji, commended the state government for promoting inclusive governance and called for sustained efforts to protect women and children across Kwara State.