UNFPA/ESLF EQUIP SAFE SHELTER AND VOCATIONAL SKILLS CENTRE AT NAPTIP FOR GBV/SGBV SURVIVORS.

Survivors of Sexual and Gender Based Violence (SGBV) in Benue State can now enjoy some succour while learning both coping and vocational skills at a safe space shelter/Vocational Skills Centre equipped by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in conjunction with Eunice Spring of Life Foundation (ESLF).

According to ESLF’s Programme Manager, Mr. Tine Agernor, the setting up of the newly commissioned shelter and vocational skills centre was one of the necessary responses to Gender Based Violence (GBV) aimed at shielding women, children and men who suffer SGBV while their relevant case managers take needed actions to resolve issues.

Mr. Agernor explained that the centre would provide shelter for survivors for not more than 2 weeks during which they were expected to learn some skills during their stay.

He noted the increasing reports of SGBV in recent times due to increased awareness has embolden people to report SGBV cases but affirmed that ESLF in partnership with UNFPA through the Benue State Planning Commission and the State Ministry of Women Affairs remains committed to eradicating the scourge in Benue State.

Also speaking at the event, the Director General, National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Dr. Fatima Waziri, who was represented by the Zonal Commandant of Makurdi Zonal Command, Mrs. Gloria Bai, and the representative of Benue State’s Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs. Magdalene Andoor said their individual organisations would always support any programme aimed at rehabilitating vulnerable victims.