The Advocacy Nigeria (AN), an NGO, recently conducted a single-day gathering that brought together members of the media, government officials, and community leaders.Â
The primary focus of this meeting was to engage in comprehensive discussions regarding the National Gender Policy (NGP). During this event, participants delved into various aspects of the NGP, exchanging ideas and insights aimed at fostering a deeper understanding of the policy’s implications and potential impact.
This inclusive dialogue sought to bridge the gap between different stakeholders, ensuring a well-rounded perspective on the matters addressed in the National Gender Policy.
The main goal of this gathering was to encourage the National Assembly to quickly pass the NGP bill into law.
Hon. Saudatu Sani, the executive director of AN, emphasized that the roundtable meeting aimed to brainstorm with the media about the NGP.
She appealed to both the federal and state governments to speedily pass the National Gender Policy into law, emphasizing the importance of protecting the rights of vulnerable communities in the country.
Furthermore, Hon. Saudatu Sani outlined AN’s specific objectives, stating that the organization seeks to enhance accountability for maternal health services in Adamawa, Gombe, and Zamfara states.
In some instances, individuals have exploited vulnerable girls, subjecting them to sexual assault in exchange for money or food.
The speaker emphasizes that the proposed bill is instrumental in addressing and combating this heinous act, aiming to provide a safeguard against such exploitative practices.
This will be achieved by mobilizing accountability champions among traditional rulers, religious leaders, government officials, and the media.
These champions will work towards tracking and advocating for accountable budgetary allocations and their proper use for health.
Addressing the media, she stressed the significance of ethical journalism, urging them to educate, enlighten, and inform the general public and key stakeholders about the dangers of gender violence, encouraging appropriate actions.
The roundtable was officially opened by Commissioner of Information Mannir Haidara Kaura Namoda, who commended Advocacy Nigeria for organizing the meeting, considering it a positive and welcome development.
