By Justina Auta
The Executive Director of Women Advocates Research and Documentation Centre (WARDC), Mrs Abiola Akiyode-Afolabi has called for a 0.5 per cent increase in national tax funding to prevent Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) in Nigeria.
Akiyode-Afolabi made this call at a press briefing in Abuja on Wednesday, organised by WARDC in collaboration with Care International.
She said the proposed increase would fund awareness-raising campaigns and stronger enforcement mechanisms to end SGBV and implement the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act nationwide.
Akiyode-Afolabi emphasised that consistent funding was crucial for preventing SGBV and providing adequate support services for victims.
“We call for increased funding for implementation and demand at least 0.5% of the total national tax.
“This will ensure consistent funding for preventing Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) and provide adequate responses to Gender-Based Violence (GBV) issues.
“It will address capacity issues for legal, medical, and psychosocial support services for victims.
“This funding will demonstrate the government’s commitment to eradicating GBV and supporting victims.
“We believe adequate funding and sustained advocacy are crucial for achieving a violence-free society, which will improve the nation’s economic and social development,” she said.
She also stressed the need for an inclusive allocation criterion that prioritised gender equity in all areas and sectors of the nation.
Additionally, WARDC’s Acting Director, Ms. Emmanuella Azu called for a public hearing on the VAPP Repeal Bill to enable stakeholders to present opinions that would support a more robust VAPP Act.
“We call for continuous engagement with stakeholders, including civil society, law enforcement, and the judiciary, to ensure that the VAPP Act 2015 reflects the needs of all relevant parties.
“This collaborative approach is essential for creating a more just and equitable society.
“Strengthening the VAPP Act 2015 and addressing its implementation challenges through necessary amendments can create a more just and equitable society.
“We believe that adequate funding and sustained advocacy are crucial in achieving a violence-free society for all, which will translate to improvements in the nation’s economic and social development.”
The VAPP Act is a law that guarantees protection from all forms of violence in Nigeria, particularly for women and girls who are disproportionately affected.
The press briefing was part of activities to mark the 16 days of activism to end all forms of violence against women and girls.
