ActionAid Nigeria (AAN) has called for the unity of traditional leaders, policy-makers, and other critical stakeholders to put an end to Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in the country.
Suwaiba Muhammad Dankabo, Deputy Country Director of AAN, made this call during a market sensitization event commemorating the 16 Days of Activism to end violence against women and girls held at Kado Fish Market in Abuja on Friday, December 8.
“It’s not just about women; men are also involved. Traditional leaders, policymakers, and everyone need to be aware and understand what violence is,” said Dankabo.
According to her ,there is need for collective efforts to invest in ending violence against women and girls, including putting resources in place for effective campaigns against gender-based violence.
Speaking on the choice of the market sensitization, Dankabo stated that “This event is taking place in the market because many people here don’t have time to watch television, listen to the radio, or attend meetings or workshops. They spend much of their time here and live amongst men.
“Some of the harassment we are addressing happens in the market. We want to ensure that sensitization reaches everyone, which is why we have come to the market to engage with the women and men selling here,” she added.
Highlighting the broader perspective, Dankabo noted that gender-based violence is not limited to women alone. However, she acknowledged the societal norms and the need to address the marginalization of women.
“In our constitution, we have a special place for women to ensure their inclusion in every market position. That’s why we have women leaders in the market, and they have their own executives managing their affairs,” said Ibrahim Muhammad, Chairman of the Fish Market Trader Association.
Muhammad also emphasized efforts to support widows by way of allocating space in the markets and providing training to market task forces to handle women-related matters with care, “considering their vulnerability to market issues”.
