The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) has reaffirmed its commitment to combating sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) against persons with disabilities through a strategic partnership with the European Union Support to End Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Programme in Nigeria (EU-ESGBV).
The Executive Secretary of NCPWD, Hon. Ayuba Burki Gufwan, stated this while receiving a delegation from the EU-ESGBV Programme at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja on Thursday. He commended the initiative and expressed the Commission’s readiness to work closely with stakeholders to tackle the growing incidence of SGBV, particularly among persons with disabilities who often face increased vulnerability and challenges in accessing support services.
The EU delegation, led by GBV Policy and Strategy Development Specialist, Melissa Omene, and GBV Cross-Sector Service Provision and Protection Specialist, Juliet Olumuyiwa Rufia, said the visit was aimed at formally introducing the programme, strengthening collaboration, and identifying key areas of partnership in policy development, strategic interventions, and survivor support services.
According to the delegation, the programme focuses on strengthening institutions, improving survivor-centred services, and promoting coordinated multi-sectoral responses to sexual and gender-based violence across Nigeria.
Both parties emphasized the need for inclusive policies and stronger mechanisms to address the unique barriers persons with disabilities face in accessing justice, protection, rehabilitation, and other essential services. They also highlighted the importance of empowering survivors through comprehensive support systems and socioeconomic opportunities.
The partnership is expected to enhance advocacy efforts, improve access to quality support services, and contribute to building a safer and more inclusive society where persons with disabilities are protected from all forms of sexual and gender-based violence.
The EU Support to End Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Programme is designed to support Nigeria’s efforts to prevent and respond to SGBV through policy reforms, institutional capacity building, survivor support services, and stronger collaboration among relevant stakeholders.
