By Atoyebi Nike
Katsina State has launched a renewed campaign to end Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV). The government established a special court to fast-track cases and a Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) to support victims with medical care, counselling, and legal guidance.
Secretary to the State Government, Abdullahi Faskari, called on prosecuting agencies to pursue offenders diligently and urged residents to report abuse promptly. The state has domesticated the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act, giving authorities a stronger framework to prosecute offenders.
Officials also emphasized the importance of girl child education as a key tool for protection and empowerment. Special Adviser to Governor Dikko Radda, Jamila Abdu-Mani, highlighted the need for heightened awareness and improved case management systems to reduce GBV incidents.
First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, warned about online abuse targeting women and girls, calling for urgent action to curb harassment, exploitation, and extortion.
