The Adamawa State Government is set to establish mobile courts for the swift handling of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) cases and other social issues.
Wunfe Anthony, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, announced this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria on Friday in Yola.
While reviewing the achievements of Governor Ahmadu Fintiri’s administration over the past year, Anthony emphasized the importance of women in national growth and the need to support them, “Our mandate as a Ministry focuses on the welfare of women, ensuring they understand their rights and live dignified lives,” she stated.
Anthony highlighted the Fintiri administration’s commitment to promoting the interests of women and girls through the enactment of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act and the Child Rights Act.
“This commitment has led to the establishment of mobile courts for the immediate trial of offenders involved in GBV and other social vices, ensuring that all fundamental human rights are protected by law,” she explained. “This initiative empowers women to speak out, breaking the tradition of ‘suffering in silence,’ and protects children’s rights by abolishing child marriage and child labor.”
Praising Fintiri’s accomplishments, Anthony commended the governor for appointing women to various leadership positions, thereby promoting gender equality.
“The governor has appointed women to significant roles, including the deputy governor, Chief Justice, judges, and commissioners of information and finance, among others. These women have demonstrated remarkable talent and intellect in their respective fields,” she said.
Anthony also explained the ministry’s collaboration with international and local organizations to empower women with various skills across the state’s 21 local government areas.
Adamawa Records 774 Sexual, Gender-Based Violence Cases, Convicts 297
“These skills, which include tailoring, soap making, leather craft, farming, poultry, and baking, have enabled women to become productive job creators and have improved their economic well-being,” she added.
Assessing the overall performance of the governor, Anthony highlighted strides in economic growth, new investments, and support for local businesses.
“The governor has not relented but has built upon the achievements of his first term, making significant progress in the socio-economic development of the state.
“From agriculture to manufacturing, the state is experiencing a resurgence of economic activities, creating jobs and opportunities for citizens.
“He has invested in road construction, introduced initiatives to improve access to quality education, and upgraded healthcare facilities with a focus on maternal and child health,” she said.
WikkiTimes recalls that Adamawa recorded 774 cases of sexual and gender violence between 2020 and the first half of 2021. About 297 of the perpetrators were convicted within the period.
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