Table of Contents
- Collaboration Between NAWOJ and NSCDC
- Advocacy Visit Details
- Commendations for NSCDC
- Focus of Collaboration
- Response from NSCDC Commandant
- Addressing Gender Insensitivity
- Call to Action for Stakeholders
The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Osun State Chapter, has expressed its readiness to partner with the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to enhance the protection of women and children against sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) in the state.
During an advocacy visit to the Osun State Commandant of NSCDC, Emmanuel Igbalawole Sotiyo, in Osogbo on Wednesday, the Chairperson of NAWOJ, Abisola Ariwodola, referred to the partnership as a significant stride toward promoting peace, security, and gender equality in Osun.
Ariwodola commended the NSCDC for its efforts in safeguarding lives and property, particularly highlighting its initiatives aimed at addressing gender-based violence.
She praised the NSCDC for establishing a Special Female Squad, which she described as a transformative initiative that provides a safe platform for women and girls to report abuse and receive the necessary support.
According to her, “Your Special Female Squad has given women and girls a voice and a sense of security. It has encouraged victims to come forward and has helped to strengthen trust between the community and the NSCDC.”
The NAWOJ chairperson also acknowledged the Corps for training Gender Desk Officers and Officers for Persons with Disabilities to effectively manage SGBV cases, emphasizing that such capacity-building initiatives have enhanced responses to violence and protection services.
“We also commend your community engagement programs, which have raised awareness about gender-based violence and promoted gender equality. These efforts have made the public view the NSCDC as approachable and dependable,” Ariwodola stated.
She added that the collaboration between NAWOJ and the NSCDC would focus on improving security reporting, promoting gender-sensitive security strategies, and building capacity among women journalists and security personnel.
“By collaborating, we can devise effective strategies to ensure that survivors receive justice, empower women and girls to engage in peace and security decision-making, and strengthen community involvement,” she asserted.
In response, the Osun NSCDC Commandant, Emmanuel Igbalawole Sotiyo, expressed gratitude to NAWOJ for the courtesy visit, describing journalists as vital partners in nation-building and societal development.
“No organization can function effectively without the support of journalists. I appreciate NAWOJ for recognizing our efforts at the NSCDC. Our mandate is clear: to protect critical national assets and ensure the safety of lives and property, particularly for women and children,” he remarked.
The Commandant assured that the Corps would continue to intensify its efforts in combating crime and preventing illegal activities, noting that justice and fairness are essential for achieving a better society.
“Our society will only improve when we all advocate for justice. Journalists play a crucial role in this. Whatever journalists highlight cannot be overlooked,” he stated.
Sotiyo noted that gender insensitivity remains widespread in society and called for increased awareness to educate people on the importance of respecting and protecting women.
“Our community must understand that women are the foundation of society. Mistreating them will only impede progress. We stand firmly with NAWOJ to promote the message that women deserve respect and protection,” he affirmed.
The Commandant also urged all stakeholders to unite in addressing the challenges faced by women and children, particularly during communal conflicts, while encouraging NAWOJ to collaborate closely with the NSCDC in its sensitization and peace-building initiatives.
“Women and children are the most affected during communal clashes. We need NAWOJ to assist us in educating the community. Together, we can create a safer society,” Sotiyo concluded.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the collaboration between NAWOJ and NSCDC?
The collaboration aims to strengthen the protection of women and children against sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV), promote peace, security, and gender equality in Osun State.
What initiatives has NSCDC implemented to address gender-based violence?
NSCDC has established a Special Female Squad and trained Gender Desk Officers and Officers for Persons with Disabilities to effectively manage cases of SGBV.
How can journalists contribute to the efforts against gender-based violence?
Journalists can raise awareness about gender-based violence, highlight the issues faced by women and children, and advocate for justice and support for survivors.
