The Kwara State Government has taken significant strides to combat Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) through the establishment of a 21-member committee dedicated to implementing relevant laws designed to protect girls and women within the state. This initiative was publicly announced by Mrs. Opeyemi Afolashade, the state Commissioner for Women Affairs, during the 2024 Girl Child Day celebration held in Ilorin, the state capital. Afolashade emphasized the government’s commitment to restoring the dignity of girls, portraying the formation of the committee as an essential step towards enhancing the protection of the girl child. She assured the public that the committee stands ready to address violations of girls’ rights, regardless of the social status of the offenders, thereby sending a strong message about the seriousness of the state’s stance against SGBV.
The governor of Kwara State, AbdulRaman AbdulRazaq, represented at the event by the state Commissioner for Health, Amina El-Imam, highlighted several measures the government is undertaking to support and empower girls in the state. He outlined initiatives including the enactment of laws such as the Child Rights Law and the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law. These laws aim to provide comprehensive protection against violence, ensuring that children have access to compulsory education and safeguarding them from discrimination. Additionally, AbdulRazaq mentioned the establishment of dedicated health institutions for women and the availability of referral centers at both General and Sobi’s Specialist hospitals, which have provided critical care and psychosocial support to SGBV victims.
The governor also called for an attitudinal shift among the public regarding gender roles, urging investment in the education of girls. He articulated a clear belief that empowering girls translates into global empowerment, reinforcing the idea that raising the status and capabilities of women benefits society as a whole. He emphasized the importance of protecting girls from violence and exploitation while encouraging their involvement in leadership training opportunities. By fostering an environment where girls can thrive, the government aims to cultivate future generations of capable leaders and professionals.
In her remarks, Olufolake AbdulRazaq, the first lady of Kwara, underscored the importance of girl child development as a primary focus of her initiatives. Her advocacy aligns with the broader goals established by the state government, further strengthening the partnership between various stakeholders in tackling issues that plague the girl child. The first lady’s commitment resonates with the community’s need for change as she emphasized the importance of building resilience in girls and promoting their capabilities in various fields.
Moreover, both the governor and the commissioner’s addresses underline the continued need for community engagement in the fight against gender-based violence and discrimination. The notion that every individual must recognize and uphold the rights of girls is pivotal as the government sets forth more proactive measures. The ongoing campaign against marginalization must persist until societal attitudes shift, fostering an understanding that a girl’s rights are integral to the fabric of a just society.
In conclusion, the establishment of the SGBV committee, alongside the legislative and health measures announced, represents a comprehensive effort by the Kwara State Government to address the challenges facing the girl child. The collaborative efforts of government officials, including the first lady, underline a strong commitment to gender equality and the protection of girls’ rights. This multifaceted approach seeks to ensure that girls are afforded opportunities for growth and success, promoting a collective understanding that investing in girls ultimately yields benefits for the entire community and society at large.
