By Marie-Therese Nanlong

Jos – The Plateau State chapter of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) has called on the State government and healthcare providers to offer free or subsidised medical services to survivors of gender-based violence (GBV), particularly those unable to afford treatment.

The appeal coincided with activities marking the 2025 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, themed “End Digital Violence Against Women and Girls.”

Speaking in Jos on Wednesday, NAWOJ Chairperson Grace Gotip led members and partners to the Plateau State Specialist Hospital, where he made the appeal and presented two survivors whobare in need of urgent medical care and monitoring.

Gotip highlighted the urgent situation of Chidinma Augustine, a survivor of sexual assault who is five months pregnant as a result of the abuse.

She said the alleged perpetrator, reportedly a lawyer, has refused responsibility, leaving Chidinma to navigate her pregnancy alone.

“She is the only surviving child in her family of nine, and her circumstances are extremely critical. She requires immediate antenatal care and counselling to cope with the trauma,” Gotip stressed.

The second survivor, Justina, sustained serious injuries to her eye following a violent assault by her boyfriend. NAWOJ has supported her emotionally, financially, and advocated on her behalf, as Gotip appealed for priority medical attention for Justina, including routine eye check-ups and treatment to prevent long-term complications.

The NAWOJ Chairperson emphasised the organisation’s commitment to giving survivors a voice and ensuring justice, urging authorities to strengthen protections and support mechanisms for GBV victims.

“Our goal is to formalise support systems, provide care, and break the cycle of violence against women and girls in the State,” she said.

Also, Ayuku Pwaspo, the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Plateau State Council, highlighted the growing threat of online harassment, fake news, and digital abuse, and encouraged survivors to speak out, assuring them of solidarity and support from the community.

Dr. Saidu Barnabas, Chairman of the Medical Advisory Committee at Plateau State Specialist Hospital, assured that the hospital would support both Chidinma and Justina with comprehensive medical care.

Other organisations, including the National Human Rights Commission, Plateau Peace Building Agency, National Council for Women Societies, Back to the Base Initiative, Youth Initiative Against Violence and Human Rights Abuse, YIAVHA, and others expressed support for NAWOJ’s advocacy, reinforcing the need for timely medical attention and protection for survivors of gender-based violence.