By Omagha Idam
In a bold and impactful move, the wives of traditional rulers in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have taken the fight against gender-based violence and early marriage to the grassroots. Under the auspices of the FCT Traditional Rulers’ Wives Association, the women joined forces with the FCT Women Affairs Secretariat to lead a robust advocacy campaign focused on gender justice, girl-child education, and women empowerment.
A United Front Against Abuse
The campaign, which drew women from across rural communities, featured impassioned dialogue, awareness sessions, and practical guidance on tackling abuse and discrimination. The women emphasized dignity, safety, and justice as non-negotiable rights for every girl and woman.
President of the Traditional Rulers’ Wives Association, Hajia Hauwa Ibrahim Adamu, said the movement is rooted in the belief that “When we educate the woman, we empower the family. When we protect the girl child, we secure the future.” This initiative is supported by MacArthur Foundation through the Resource Center for Human Rights and Civic Education.
Government Support and Commitment
Dr. Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi, Mandate Secretary of the FCT Women Affairs Secretariat, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to scaling advocacy across all six Area Councils. She said the outreach is aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu’s administration, which aims to deliver structured interventions that include awareness, education, empowerment, and access to justice.
Traditional Institution’s Pledge
His Royal Majesty, Baba Yunusa Adamu, the Ona of Abaji, lauded the initiative and called on other traditional leaders to take a stand against harmful practices. “As custodians of culture, our role is to protect, not to oppress. These women have our full support,” he said.
A Diverse Coalition of Stakeholders
The event brought together a diverse coalition of stakeholders, including religious leaders, youth advocates, women leaders, persons with disabilities, and justice sector representatives, all united by a single purpose: to protect and empower women and girls in every corner of the FCT.
A Movement in Motion
With voices rising from within the royal households, and actions reaching the heart of rural communities, the campaign against gender violence in the FCT is no longer symbolic – it is a movement in motion. The women are determined to bring about change and ensure that every girl and woman in the FCT is treated with dignity and respect.
Key Takeaways
- The FCT Traditional Rulers’ Wives Association and the FCT Women Affairs Secretariat are working together to combat gender-based violence and early marriage.
- The campaign aims to promote gender justice, girl-child education, and women empowerment.
- The initiative is aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu’s administration.
Conclusion
The FCT Traditional Rulers’ Wives Association’s campaign against gender violence is a significant step towards promoting gender justice and empowering women and girls in the FCT. With the support of the government and traditional institutions, the movement is poised to bring about meaningful change and ensure that every girl and woman in the FCT is treated with dignity and respect.
Impact on the Community
The campaign has already made a significant impact on the community, with many women and girls benefiting from the awareness sessions and practical guidance provided. The initiative has also brought together a diverse coalition of stakeholders, all working towards a common goal of protecting and empowering women and girls.
Future Plans
The FCT Traditional Rulers’ Wives Association and the FCT Women Affairs Secretariat plan to continue their advocacy efforts, scaling up their campaign to reach more communities and promote gender justice and women empowerment. With their combined efforts, they are confident that they can bring about lasting change and ensure a brighter future for women and girls in the FCT.