The Edo State Government has held the 14th quarterly meeting of the Gender-Based Violence Management Committee (GBVMC) to consolidate gains and further efforts to curb gender-based violence in the state.
The meeting, held at the New Festival Hall, Government House, Benin City, was chaired by the Coordinator, Office of the First Lady and Chairperson of the GBVMC, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani. She stressed the need for thorough investigations, support for survivors, and greater parental involvement in prevention education.
The Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Chief Bisi Idaomi, represented by Mrs. Eseosa Onebamoi, highlighted key milestones, including the establishment of a special Family Court and a new GBV Centre in Uromi in partnership with the International Organization for Migration (IOM).
She noted that the Ministry has trained health workers and plans to expand training to legal officers, NGOs, and security agencies on GBV response and prevention. She also mentioned economic empowerment initiatives for widows and GBV survivors.
The engagement featured progress reports from various MDAs and stakeholders, fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing.
Commissioner for Information and Communication, Hon. Paul Ohonbamu (represented by Mrs. Joy Oghogho), said awareness efforts on GBV had been stepped up through media campaigns.
RoLAC Programme Coordinator, Mrs. Uchenna Nwokedi, announced support for capacity building at the Uromi Sexual Assault Referral Centre.
Key officials in attendance included the Commissioners for Health and Women Affairs, permanent secretaries, and heads of key health and development agencies.
