The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has reaffirmed its commitment to gender equality, the protection of women and youths, and inclusive security through the implementation of its Gender Policy II, with renewed efforts to combat Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) and promote digital safety.
The Commandant General of the Corps, Professor Ahmed Abubakar Audi, mni, OFR, reiterated this commitment during a two-day Gender, Women, Peace and Security Capacity-Building Training held at the NSCDC College and Support Staff Service in Udege, Nasarawa State.
According to an official statement signed by the National Public Relations Officer of the Corps, Assistant Commandant of Corps Babawale Afolabi, the training was organised in collaboration with Strengthening Peace and Resilience in Nigeria (SPRING), with support from the United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).
Audi, who was represented at the event, said Gender Policy II provides a framework for integrating gender considerations into the Corps’ operations, personnel management, leadership and community engagement.
He stressed the need for effective prevention and response to SGBV, including conflict-related and technology-facilitated violence, while advocating increased participation of women in peacebuilding and security decision-making.
The NSCDC boss also called for equal opportunities within the Corps and stronger partnerships with traditional institutions, government agencies, civil society organisations and development partners to advance gender equality and inclusive security.
He charged commands and personnel, particularly Gender Desk Officers, to ensure effective coordination, timely reporting, appropriate referrals, monitoring and accountability, emphasising that successful implementation of the policy requires collective responsibility.
In a goodwill message, the Osu Ajiri of Edege Chiefdom, His Royal Highness Alhaji Suleiman Ahmed Eko IV, commended the Corps for its presence in the community, noting that its activities had strengthened the sense of security among residents, particularly the predominantly farming population.
The traditional ruler pledged the support of his council in addressing gender-based violence, describing the protection of the people as a major priority.
Earlier, the Commander of the College, ACG Jamilu Indabawa, highlighted the importance of stakeholder collaboration in ensuring effective implementation of the gender policy.
Similarly, the Gender Equality, Diversity and Social Inclusion Lead of SPRING, Mrs Amina Akano-Bello, said the training was designed to promote peaceful and resilient communities through early identification and response to gender-based violence, as well as the active inclusion of women and youths in leadership.
The NSCDC National Headquarters Gender Unit Adviser, DCC Ajet Kemi, also delivered a presentation on SGBV, examining its different forms, societal implications and preventive measures.
Participants were further taken through practical sessions on institutional ethics in gender policy implementation by former Assistant Commandant General, ACG Ahmed Abodurin, who emphasised professionalism, accountability, gender sensitivity and adherence to institutional standards.
As part of efforts to extend the campaign beyond the training venue, the NSCDC also partnered with TechHer, an organisation focused on advancing women’s empowerment through safe and inclusive access to technology, to conduct sensitisation exercises in selected schools across Udege.
The outreach, themed “Stop Technology-Facilitated Gender-Based Violence (TFGBV),” educated students on the dangers of digital abuse, responsible online behaviour and practical measures for staying safe in the digital space.
Representatives of the Ministry of Interior, Nasarawa State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Nasarawa State Ministry of Justice and Gammuo International also delivered goodwill messages, reaffirming the importance of collective action in promoting gender equality, peace and security.
