By Umar Faruk
Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State, Nigeria - September 9, 2025 (Series News Online)
In a bid to fortify the fight against gender-based violence (GBV) in Kebbi State, the Technical Working Group on GBV (TWG-GBV) has embarked on a strategic partnership with key academic institutions. The group recently paid advocacy visits to Abdullahi Fodio University, Aliero, and the College of Health Technology, Jega, with the aim of strengthening institutional responses to GBV. During the visits, TWG-GBV officials engaged in productive discussions with university administrators, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts in combating GBV. At Abdullahi Fodio University, Aliero, the team met with top officials, including the Public Relations Officer, University Librarian, Dean of Student Affairs, and others.
The Secretary of TWG-GBV, Comrade Nasiru Idris, highlighted the national framework guiding their efforts, which is chaired by Nigeria's First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu. He stressed the need for institutional collaboration in establishing GBV Response Teams, saying, "We are committed to working with academic institutions to prevent GBV and support survivors."
The University Librarian, representing the Vice Chancellor, assured the team that the institution is committed to integrating anti-GBV interventions into its student engagement framework. The Dean of Student Affairs also pledged to harmonize student clubs tackling GBV into a unified body.
Similarly, at the College of Health Technology, Jega, the TWG-GBV team met with the Provost, Registrar, and other officials. The Provost, Hussaini Aliyu, endorsed the proposal to establish a GBV Response Committee and directed the Registrar to compile a list of committee members.
The advocacy visits demonstrate a growing commitment across Kebbi State's academic institutions to address GBV. The TWG-GBV's efforts aim to create a safer and more supportive environment for students, faculty, and staff. As Comrade Nasiru Idris noted, "Together, we can create a safer and more supportive environment for all."
