By Tom Garba, Yola
Gender equality and social inclusion has been stressed to commemorate the 2024 international Women Day with the theme, "Inspire Inclusion".
For this a non governmental organization, Ford Foundation in partnership with Women's Rights Advancement and Protection Alternative in Yola has engaged Men, Boys and Youngsters by sensitizing them on the need for social inclusion in Adamawa State communities.
The engagement was held in Wauru Jabbe, a suburb of Jimeta and a community under Yola South Local Government area of Adamawa with a call to fight the menace of Gender Base Violence in ravaging many households
Ford Foundation which sponsored Women's Rights Advancement and Protection Alternative to engage stakeholders who mainly representatives of Muslims Council, Christians Association of Nigeria in Adamawa State, Federation of Women Lawyers and persons with Disabilities as well as Journalists among others raise concerns over the rising cases of gender based violence (GBV).
In her opening remarks during the event the State Coordinator of Women's Rights Advancement and Protection Alternative, Mrs. Bibiana Adams said the aims of the engagement is to foster positive relationships and communication between men and Boys and other gender identities in the society.
According to her the essence is to also encourage Men and Young adults to challenge some norms playing gender roles working against the implementation of gender related policies.
Speaking, the State team lead, Jemimah Ishaya encouraged men to support women in all aspects, noting that this would end the disparity and enhance social inclusion of women.
Representative of the commissioner of Women Affairs and Social Development, Bibiana Joseph called for more investment for women and close of gaps for gender inclusion.
Community stakeholders of Wauru Jabbe of Yola South local government area, include Musa Babajo pledged to carry home the interactions at the meeting for more awareness.
Highlights of the meeting include panelists discussion with the aim for overpowering gender inclusion in Wauru Jabbe and other communities across Adamawa State.
