the United States Chargé d’Affaires to Nigeria, David Greene has pledged the American government’s continued support and assistance to local Nigerian organizations for their dedicated efforts in combating sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV), further applauding them for in protecting vulnerable women and girls across the nation.
Speaking at an event dubbed “No Tolerance March” in Lagos,focused on ending SGBV, Mr. Greene praised the tireless work of these organizations, highlighting the crucial role they play in raising awareness, providing support services, and advocating for the rights of survivors.
He emphasized the importance of addressing this pervasive issue that affects countless women and girls, hampering their physical and emotional well-being while hindering social progress.
“I want to thank Dr. Kemi Dasilva-Ibru and her team from the Women at Risk International Foundation for putting together this important event. Dr Kemi and her team are doing fantastic work at their centre in Yaba,” he noted.
The envoy stressed that preventing and responding to GBV globally is a cornerstone of U.S. foreign policy and human rights promotion efforts.
Greene referenced America’s updated strategy guiding interventions abroad like awareness programmes and policy reforms across nations battling epidemic violence against females.
“In December 2022, the United States released an action-oriented update to the US Strategy to Prevent and Respond to Gender-Based Violence Globally. This strategy drives a comprehensive, unified, interagency response to gender-based violence abroad,” he outlined.
He revealed that over $50 million has been invested through the US Mission in Nigeria to advance gender equality and equip women and girls to escape GBV threats.
“Through US Mission Nigeria, more than 50,000 girls and young women have been trained on how to escape dangerous GBV-related situations through USAID’s flagship “No Means No” program.
“The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, via PEPFAR, provides support to integrate HIV treatment services for GBV victims. Close to 20,000 GBV survivors have participated in treatment programs to include viral suppression and reduction of HIV acquisition,” he noted.
