The Benue State Government has emphasised the need for stronger collaboration among government agencies and local government authorities to address gender-based violence (GBV) and promote women’s peace and security.

The Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Mrs Theresa Odachi Ikwue, stressed the need to involve the wives of local government chairmen in handling GBV cases to strengthen community-level response and support for survivors.

The Chairperson of Elohim Development Foundation, Mrs Victoria Daaor, disclosed that her organisation had implemented women, peace and security interventions in nine local government areas, with plans to extend to three additional councils. She appealed to the Ministry to facilitate the inclusion of a dedicated budget line for women, peace and security in the state budget.

Responding, the Chairman of Agatu Local Government Area, Hon. Melvin Ejeh, emphasised the need to engage budget planning officers to ensure proper representation of women, peace and security interventions in budgetary provisions.

The Honourable Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. James Dwem, called for synergy among government agencies, noting that effective collaboration was essential to achieving sustainable results.

The interface brought together key government officials, various local government council chairmen within the state and stakeholders to strengthen coordination and advance women’s participation in peace building and the prevention of gender-based violence.

 Joy Akoh

Information Officer

Ministry of women affairs and social welfare