Toba Owojaiye ReportingÂ
In a resounding display of commitment to the well-being and empowerment of the girl-child, Mrs. Betsy Obaseki, the First Lady of Edo State, along with members of the Nigeria Governors’ Wives Forum (NGWF), emphasized the urgent need to combat gender-based violence (GBV) in Nigeria. The declaration was made during a seminar held as part of the third edition of the Betsy Obaseki Women Football Tournament (BOWFT) in Benin City.
Mrs. Betsy Obaseki, while addressing the audience, underscored Edo State’s continuous dedication to policies aimed at safeguarding the girl-child and ensuring their welfare. She explained, “This is the third year of this tournament, and from the onset, our objective has been not just to play football but to address social issues that affect women and girls in our society.”
Speaking passionately about the fight against GBV, Mrs. Obaseki emphasized the collective responsibility of governors’ wives. She stated, “The issue of GBV is a battle for all of us as governors’ wives. We united to wage this war and will persist until there is zero tolerance for GBV in Nigeria.”
Highlighting their significant progress, she shared, “During our first tournament, we received recognition from FIFA, which honored us for our initiative in empowering girls through this platform. We strive year after year to maintain high levels of professionalism, seeking more FIFA recognition. BOWFT is now recognized as Africa’s leading women’s football tournament, and we aim to make Nigerian women’s football known worldwide. This year’s theme is ‘Stop Gender-Based Violence,’ reflecting the focus of the Nigeria Governors’ Wives Forum on this critical issue.”
Furthermore, she stressed the prevalence of GBV in schools, communities, and other settings, where victims often remain silent. However, she noted their efforts to educate and encourage children to speak up and join the fight. “We are enlightening them on the Violence Against Persons (VAP) Law, making them bold to stand with us in this battle, with the goal of reducing GBV to the barest minimum or completely eradicating it.”
Erelu Bisi Fayemi, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of NGWF and former First Lady of Ekiti State, commended Mrs. Betsy Obaseki’s unwavering dedication to the GBV cause. She acknowledged the NGWF’s role in promoting the fight against gender-based violence, which has led to the passage of VAP laws in 35 out of 36 Nigerian states, with only Kano State remaining.
Ms. Beatrice Eyong, the United Nations Women’s Country Representative to Nigeria, also lauded the NGWF’s tireless efforts, which have resulted in the declaration of a war on gender-based violence. She emphasized the need for alliances to combat this scourge.
Oluwole Osaze-Uzzi, the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice of Edo State, expressed appreciation for the Governor Godwin Obaseki-led administration’s commitment to the VAP law, resulting in over 50 convictions and ongoing prosecutions for more than 200 GBV-related cases across the state. He emphasized that GBV should not be tolerated, highlighting the establishment of a dedicated court in Edo State to handle such cases and the determination to ensure perpetrators face justice.
The seminar also witnessed the presence of former First Ladies and dignitaries who united to support the cause, reflecting the collective commitment to eradicating GBV and promoting the empowerment of the girl-child.
As Mrs. Betsy Obaseki and the Nigeria Governors’ Wives Forum continue their relentless fight against gender-based violence and their support for the girl-child, it is evident that their efforts are making significant strides in creating a safer and more equitable society for all.