By Chinedu Adonu

ENUGU — Enugu North Local Government Area has hosted a strategic sensitisation programme on Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and a public hearing on the proposed Enugu State Gender Policy.

The event was organised by the Enugu State Ministry of Children, Gender Affairs and Social Development, in collaboration with the South Saharan Social Development Organisation (SSDO), and supported by the Ford Foundation. It aimed to rally stakeholders and amplify grassroots voices in the ongoing fight against GBV.

In her address, the Commissioner for Children, Gender Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Mrs. Ngozi Enih, commended the leadership of Enugu North Council Chairman, Dr. Ibenaku Harford Onoh, for his unwavering commitment to protecting the rights of women and children. She also lauded the support of Governor Peter Mbah and the First Lady for their consistent advocacy for gender justice and social inclusion.

Mrs. Enih noted that the public hearing was created to give women a platform to speak on critical issues affecting their rights, such as female genital mutilation, domestic violence, and other forms of abuse. She also appreciated SSDO and the Ford Foundation for their enduring partnership in driving gender reforms across the state.

In his remarks, Dr. Onoh described the programme as timely and crucial, particularly in view of ongoing campaigns and awareness efforts around gender-based violence in the state. He affirmed Enugu North’s commitment to leading by example in the protection and promotion of human rights.

Dr. Onoh thanked Governor Mbah for approving the gender policy reform and for spearheading developmental projects in the council and across Enugu State. He further applauded Commissioner Enih for her passion and dedication to gender equity and inclusiveness.

He encouraged women present at the event to express themselves openly, noting that their input would be essential in shaping a robust and responsive gender policy that addresses the real challenges faced by women and children in the state.