Rivers State Deputy Governor Dr. (Mrs) Ipalibo Harry Banigo says her decision to set up the Protect the Girl Child Initiative was propelled by her passion to protect the rights of the Girl Child against all forms of violence.
Dr. Banigo made this assertion while speaking at a symposium on Gender Based Violence Response and Challenges organized by the Medical Women’s Association of Nigeria (MWAN) Rivers State, on Friday 22nd October 2021.
Speaking through her Senior Special Assistant, Barr. Inegogo Fubara, Dr. Banigo said, “Gender Based Violence is one of the most prevalent human rights violation that affects not only the health of women and girls, psychologically and physically but also impacts greatly on their self-esteem, dignity and also depicts inequality”.
Dr. Banigo who insisted that gender equality was a right and an integral part of achieving sustainable development, peace and human progress said, the more gender based violence issues we encounter the longer it would take to for our world to achieve sustainable development and progress.
The Deputy Governor, urged stakeholders to push for a zero tolerance against Gender Based Violence at all levels, within the community and family by creating more awareness, through encouraging and supporting the education of the Girl Child.
According to Dr. Banigo the State Chief Executive, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike’s support to women was unparareled, noting that he remains the most gender friendly Governor in Nigeria.
She commended MWAN for creating awareness on Gender Based Violence, medical interventions as well as their support for women in the State.
In her keynote address delivered virtually, the Resident Representative, United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Ms Ulla Elizabeth Mueller said with the outbreak of the Covid 19 pandemic there has been an increase in Gender Based Violence in Nigeria.
She expressed the need for us to stand up for each other, and address the issues concerning Gender Based Violence.
