By Umar Faruk
Birnin Kebbi, Nigeria–June 15, 2026 (Series News Online)- The Kebbi State Ministry of Women Affairs has officially handed over the administration and management of the Gender-Based Violence, GBV, Shelter to the State Technical Working Group on Gender-Based Violence, TWG on GBV, in a move aimed at strengthening protection services for vulnerable persons.
“The handover, which took place on Monday, June 15, 2026, was carried out under the directive of Her Excellency, Hajiya Zainab Nasare Kauran Gwandu, the First Lady of Kebbi State and Chairperson of the Technical Working Group on GBV,” the statement said.
“The GBV Shelter, widely regarded as a long-awaited intervention in the state, represents a major milestone in efforts to provide protection, care, and rehabilitation services for survivors of gender-based violence and other vulnerable individuals. As the first facility of its kind in Kebbi State, the shelter is expected to play a crucial role in addressing the needs of those facing various forms of abuse, neglect, displacement, and social vulnerabilities,” the statement noted.
The State Coordinator of WRAPA Kebbi State Office and Secretary of TWG on GBV, Comrade Nasiru Idris, explained the shelter’s mandate and services.
“According to Comrade Nasiru Idris, the shelter will serve as a temporary safe haven for survivors and vulnerable persons, offering them protection, psychosocial support, counseling, and other essential services before they are safely reunited with their families or integrated into appropriate support systems,” he stated.
He listed categories of persons eligible for temporary accommodation at the facility.
“Individuals who may require temporary accommodation at the shelter include survivors of domestic violence, sexual abuse, rape, child abuse, forced marriage, trafficking, abandonment, family disputes, marital misunderstandings, emotional abuse, neglect, and other situations that place their safety, well being, or dignity at risk. The facility will also support vulnerable women, children, and other individuals who require urgent protection and assistance during periods of crisis,” Comrade Idris said.
The TWG on GBV said the shelter would help survivors recover and reintegrate into society through professional support.
“The shelter is expected to contribute significantly to alleviating psychosocial trauma and providing a pathway to recovery for those experiencing distressing circumstances. Through professional care, counseling, and coordinated support services, beneficiaries will be assisted in rebuilding their confidence and reintegrating into society,” Comrade Idris stated.
The group expressed optimism that stakeholders would utilize the facility responsibly and called for collaboration.
“The Technical Working Group on GBV expressed optimism that government agencies, development partners, civil society organizations, community groups, and individuals will make effective and responsible use of the shelter's services. It is hoped that the facility will become a vital resource in resolving many of the social and family-related challenges faced by vulnerable members of society,” Comrade Idris said.
He acknowledged the contributions of the First Lady, the state governor, and the Ministry of Women Affairs to the project’s realization.
“The group also used the occasion to express profound appreciation to Her Excellency, Hajiya Zainab Nasare Kauran Gwandu, whose vision, dedication, and firm commitment were instrumental in the establishment of the shelter. The initiative is widely seen as another remarkable achievement under the administration of His Excellency, Comrade Nasiru Idris Kauran Gwandu, the Executive Governor of Kebbi State, whose government has continued to create an enabling environment for initiatives aimed at improving the welfare and protection of citizens,” Comrade Idris stated.
“Furthermore, special recognition was extended to the Ministry of Women Affairs for its pivotal role in facilitating the establishment and operationalization of the shelter. Appreciation was equally conveyed to all partner organizations, stakeholders, and individuals whose contributions, support, and collaboration helped bring the project to fruition,” he added.
Comrade Idris described the shelter as a symbol of the state’s commitment to protecting vulnerable citizens.
“This shelter is not merely a facility; it is a symbol of compassion, protection, and the collective commitment of Kebbi State to safeguarding the dignity and well-being of its most vulnerable citizens,” Comrade Nasiru Idris stated.
Stakeholders expressed hope that the facility would deliver lasting relief to survivors across the state.
“As the shelter begins operations under the management of the Technical Working Group on GBV, stakeholders remain hopeful that it will provide lasting relief, protection, and renewed hope to survivors and vulnerable persons across Kebbi State,” Comrade Idris said.
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