The First Lady of Abia State, Mrs Priscilla Otti, has led a high-profile delegation to the 5th Annual Nigerian Governors’ Spouses Forum (NGSF) Conference to spotlight the urgent need to combat gender-based violence (GBV) through strengthened laws and transformative advocacy.
Mrs. Otti was accompanied by notable Abia women leaders, including Chief (Hon.) Veronica Orih, Mrs Chinwe Kalu Uba, the Special Assistant on Industry and SMEs, and Cleopatra Nkolika Ubani, the Senior Special Assistant on Legal Matters to underscore Abia State’s dedication to advancing gender equality and supporting survivors of violence.
Speaking at the event held on Wednesday at the Transcorp Hilton in Abuja, Themed “Transforming Norms, Strengthening Laws: Ending Violence Against Women and Girls,” Mrs Otti reaffirmed her commitment to eradicating violence against women and girls.
“Gender-based violence is a scourge that undermines our families and communities. We must continue to collaborate, challenge harmful societal norms, and strengthen laws to protect women and girls,” she said.
The conference which brought together governors’ spouses, United Nations representatives, ambassadors, and other stakeholders to strategize on dismantling societal norms that perpetuate violence also emphasized the importance of traditional and religious leaders in reshaping attitudes towards women and girls.
The forum celebrated key achievements, including the widespread adoption of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act, the expansion of Sexual Assault Referral Centers (SARCs), and the creation of survivor funds to help victims rebuild their lives. These initiatives reflect a nationwide commitment to making communities safer for women and children.
Highlighting the role of governors’ spouses in mobilizing public awareness, the event featured engaging panel discussions on strengthening the implementation of protective laws like the VAPP Act. Mrs Otti joined other first ladies in reiterating their zero-tolerance stance on GBV and pledged to amplify advocacy and policy reforms in their states.
“We are united in our determination to end this menace. Together with our partners, we will continue to push for policies and interventions that ensure women and girls can live free from violence and fear,” Mrs Otti said.
The conference concluded with a collective call to action to intensify efforts in protecting women’s rights and creating a future free from violence. By working with development partners, grassroots organizations, and government agencies, the Nigerian Governors’ Spouses Forum continues to lead the charge in building a safer and more equitable society.
