FCTA Ramps Up Fight Against Gender-Based Violence Across 6 Area Councils
In response to the rising cases of gender-based violence (GBV) in Nigeria’s capital, the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has launched an intensified campaign across the six area councils aimed at curbing the menace and protecting vulnerable groups. The campaign seeks to raise awareness and drive grassroots interventions to address the disturbing trend of violence, particularly against women and marginalized communities in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Speaking at a sensitization workshop for desk officers in Bwari and the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), FCT Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, highlighted the importance of tackling GBV as a critical step towards building a more just and equitable society. Mahmoud, represented by the Special Assistant and Focal Person on Social Investment Programme, Hajia Maijidda Adamu Kuku, emphasized that the increasing prevalence of gender-based violence in the FCT demands urgent and decisive action.
During her address, Dr. Mahmoud expressed concern over the impact of gender-based violence on individuals and society as a whole, stressing that the issue has both immediate and long-term consequences for survivors. “Gender-based violence remains one of the critical issues affecting millions of individuals, especially women and marginalized communities,” she stated, pointing out the physical, psychological, and emotional damage inflicted on survivors.
She called for an intensification of campaigns across the FCT to combat various forms of GBV, including domestic violence, sexual assault, and harassment. “The psychological, physical, and emotional impact of GBV can be devastating, leading to long-term health consequences and perpetuating cycles of violence,” Mahmoud noted, adding that raising awareness through aggressive campaigns is key to breaking these cycles.
Mahmoud reiterated the importance of community participation in efforts to combat GBV, stressing that prevention requires challenging harmful societal norms and stereotypes that condone violence. “Education and outreach efforts are essential to challenge societal norms and stereotypes that condone violence,” she said. “Mobilizing communities, as we are doing today, can create safer environments and foster collective responsibility.”
The minister called on participants to intensify their advocacy efforts within the 62 political wards in the FCT, aiming to change harmful behaviors through education and awareness. “We must ensure that our campaigns reach all corners of the FCT, particularly at the grassroots level, to drive lasting change,” she said.
Celina Agana, Gender Officer at the FCT Social Safety Nets Coordinating Unit, echoed Mahmoud’s call for sustained campaigns, emphasizing the need for culturally sensitive approaches. Agana highlighted that advocacy efforts must be tailored to the unique needs of different communities within the FCT to be effective.
“The campaigns must be culturally sensitive and tailored to different communities,” she said, stressing the importance of using local languages and Pidgin English to ensure the message resonates with all segments of society. “Understanding local contexts and engaging community leaders can enhance the effectiveness of the campaign and encourage greater community participation,” Agana added.
Agana also pointed out the role of the FCT’s cash transfer program in supporting these efforts. The program has helped many communities engage more actively in social interventions, contributing to poverty reduction and addressing some of the root causes of GBV.
The FCTA’s approach to curbing GBV involves a multi-stakeholder collaboration, bringing together government agencies, civil society organizations, and community leaders. Mahmoud reiterated the administration’s commitment to expanding access to essential services for survivors, including healthcare, legal aid, and psychosocial support. “No one should suffer in silence,” Mahmoud said, urging survivors to come forward and access the resources available to them.
The sensitization workshops held in Bwari and AMAC mark the beginning of a wider campaign that will be rolled out across all area councils in the FCT. These workshops aim to equip desk officers with the skills and tools they need to lead local advocacy efforts, ensuring that communities are well-informed and actively engaged in the fight against GBV.
The FCTA’s intensified campaign against GBV in the FCT is part of a broader national movement to tackle gender-based violence across Nigeria. With alarming statistics showing a rise in domestic violence, rape, and other forms of GBV, there has been increased pressure on both state and federal governments to take action.
Human rights organizations and gender activists have praised the FCTA’s efforts but stress that more needs to be done nationwide. They have called for stronger enforcement of laws such as the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act and greater investments in shelters, counseling services, and legal support for survivors.
While the campaign in the FCT is a step in the right direction, experts agree that a nationwide strategy, driven by political will and collaboration between government bodies and civil society, is essential for achieving long-term success in the fight against GBV.
As the FCTA continues to roll out its campaign, all eyes will be on how effectively the administration can mobilize communities and sustain momentum. The success of the initiative in the FCT could serve as a model for other states looking to combat gender-based violence and protect vulnerable populations.
The fight against GBV, according to Mahmoud, is not one that can be won overnight, but with persistent effort, community involvement, and political will, a future free of violence and discrimination is achievable. “We owe it to the women, girls, and marginalized groups of our society to continue this fight until GBV is no longer a threat to their safety and well-being,” she concluded.
