Traditional leaders, united under the Council of Traditional Leaders in Africa (COTLA), have reiterated their commitment to ending violence against women and girls in Nigeria. This affirmation was made during a media dialogue organized by COTLA in Abuja as part of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), supported by UN Women with assistance from the Ford Foundation.
HRM (Arc.) King Adedapo Aderemi, the Convener General of COTLA, commended UN Women for its ongoing efforts in advocating for the rights of women and girls. He emphasized COTLA’s dedication to promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment in Nigeria.
Dr. Haliru Yahaya Ndanusa, the Emir of Shonga and Deputy Convener-General of COTLA, highlighted various initiatives introduced by traditional leaders to address harmful cultural practices and negative gender norms. He emphasized that Islamic principles advocate for the protection of women’s rights, including property ownership.
Dr. Usman Ngakupi, Sapeyi of Garki, shared success stories of counseling interventions to discourage prostitution among girls in his domain. He stressed the importance of education for women and girls and the positive impact of initiatives promoting gender equality.
Eze(Dr.) Onyibe Cosmos, Enechi Ekuma IV Okposi Kingdom in Ohaozara, Ebonyi State, discussed laws implemented in his kingdom, such as giving women the right to share their fathers’ properties. He highlighted measures taken to eradicate female genital mutilation and empower women.
Ms. Funke Baruwa, Programme Officer at the Ford Foundation, acknowledged the traditional leaders’ deep knowledge and experiences, emphasizing their crucial role in promoting understanding and denouncing GBV. She highlighted intensified campaigns against various forms of gender-based violence.
UN Women Representative to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Beatrice Eyong, commended the traditional leaders for their commitment. She stressed the importance of working with them to end violence against women and girls while encouraging them to share their community initiatives in the fight against GBV.
Established in 2018, the Council of Traditional Leaders in Africa (COTLA) continues to work towards ending GBV with the support of UN Women. The traditional leaders in Nigeria, through COTLA, have developed a work plan to actively engage in efforts to combat gender-based violence.
