By Markus Giwa
In a strategic effort to address gender-based violence (GBV), reduce child marriage, and promote sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), the Norwegian Government, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), and the Centre for the Study and Resolution of Domestic Violence (CERSDOV), in partnership with the Kaduna State Government, successfully concluded a high-level two-day advocacy training in Kaduna State.
The event, held from May 2 to 3, 2025, brought together key stakeholders from various sectors—including traditional rulers, religious leaders, legal practitioners, healthcare professionals, and civil society representatives—to sharpen their capacities in policy analysis, strategic planning, and community-centered advocacy for gender equality and SRHR.
Speaking shortly after the training, Professor Hauwa’u Evelyn Yusuf, Executive Director of CERSDOV, expressed satisfaction with the caliber and commitment of participants.
“I was very deliberate in selecting invitees. We had two Hakimis—Bunun Zazzau and Danmukoyon Zazzau—who stayed through the entire program. That level of participation from traditional leaders is a major achievement,” she said.
Professor Yusuf emphasized that the event went beyond mere attendance. “We had key players present, including representatives of the Attorney General, commissioners from the Ministries of Human Services and Social Development, and the State Budget and Planning Commission, as well as notable religious figures. Achieving such inclusion takes intentional effort,” she noted.
The event marks a continuation of strategic engagements supported by Norway and the UNFPA to institutionalize gender justice, improve survivor access to services, and foster community ownership in combatting GBV and harmful traditional practices.
Looking ahead, Professor Yusuf revealed plans for a public commitment event. “The stakeholders are ready and enthusiastic. We’re planning the next stage, which will be a public declaration of commitment. Everyone here wants progress for our people,” she said.
She thanked the Norwegian Government and UNFPA for their unwavering support. “We at CERSDOV deeply appreciate the support—not just for our organization but for the entire Kaduna State. We are confident that this partnership will influence future policy direction and strengthen community resilience,” she added.
Also speaking at the training, Alexander Aku Amadi, Deputy Director of Civil Litigation at the Kaduna State Ministry of Justice, who represented the Attorney General, said the state government remained fully committed to the cause.
“The Attorney General was very eager to attend personally but had pressing engagements. I was honored to represent the ministry and stayed throughout the training due to its high quality and relevance,” he said.
Amadi pledged to carry forward the resolutions and outcomes of the training, assuring that they would feed into government programming. “Awareness has improved, but there is always more to do. This kind of initiative helps us focus on the practical steps needed to move forward,” he added.
Barrister Sidikat Adeboye, Centre Manager of the Salama Sexual Assault Referral Centre in Tudun Wada, Kaduna, noted that the training would bolster survivor confidence and access to essential services.
“With the caliber of participants—particularly traditional and religious leaders—we expect that more survivors will come forward for medical treatment, psychosocial support, and legal aid,” she said.
Barrister Sarah Sambu Ishaku, Deputy Director of Natural Law and Customs at the Kaduna Multi-Door Court House, described the workshop as transformative.
“This training gave me a new understanding of GBV and how best to collaborate with referral centers. It has opened my eyes to alternative solutions like restorative justice,” she explained.
She advocated for non-courtroom resolutions in certain cases. “Victims, offenders, and community leaders should be able to meet and resolve issues. Sometimes, it’s more impactful when survivors state their needs and receive direct restitution or support, rather than seeing offenders pay fines to the state alone,” she said.
Alhaji Bala Mohamed Tijani, District Head of Doka and Bunun Zazzau, who was recently honored as a GBV and SRHR Ambassador, described the title as both recognition and motivation.
“It symbolizes appreciation for what we’ve achieved and spurs us to do more. We still need broader awareness campaigns and stronger enforcement of protective policies,” he emphasized.
The high-level training underscored the synergy between international support and local ownership in tackling GBV and advancing reproductive rights. It also demonstrated a growing consensus among leaders that meaningful change requires community-driven approaches and inclusive dialogue.
With renewed political will, institutional backing, and grassroots advocacy, the training has set the stage for long-term, systemic action across Kaduna State—ensuring that vulnerable groups, especially women and girls, are protected, empowered, and given a voice in shaping their futures.
Dan Zaki Media 