Ogun, UNFPA strengthen efforts to support gender-based violence survivors

The Ogun State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Adijat Adeleye, has reaffirmed the state’s dedication to supporting victims of gender-based violence as they navigate their recovery journeys.

During a recent retreat in collaboration with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), Adeleye announced the launch of three new Sexual Assault Referral Centers (SARCs) located in Abeokuta, Ilaro, and Ijebu-Ode, aimed at bolstering the support framework for survivors.

In her keynote address, she emphasized that the retreat served as a platform for enhancing service delivery at these centers, ultimately improving the experiences of survivors and fostering a more secure and nurturing environment.

Adeleye stated, “SARC service providers play a crucial role in combating gender-based violence. It is vital that survivors feel they have a safe haven where they can begin to heal.” She highlighted the importance of empathy, active listening, and creating safe spaces as essential components of the recovery process for survivors.

The addition of the new centers will supplement the existing facility in Sagamu, offering survivors crucial access to refuge, justice, and both medical and psychological support.

Moreover, Adeleye revealed that the state government, in partnership with UNFPA, has launched toll-free numbers, 08000000666 and 08000000555, for reporting cases of gender-based violence.

Mrs. Adejumoke Adewole, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, welcomed participants and encouraged them to share insights and adopt best practices to strengthen collaborative efforts against gender-based violence throughout the state. She reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring justice and equality in addressing these cases.

Dr. Esther Shomefun, a Gender and Reproductive Health Analyst with UNFPA, stressed the necessity of enhancing the skills of SARC service providers. She advocated for a survivor-centered approach, which would equip providers to effectively address and resolve issues related to GBV cases.

Shomefun commended the partnership between the Ogun State government and UNFPA in prioritizing the welfare of survivors, emphasizing the organization’s strict zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and abuse by service providers at the SARCs.