The Kaduna State Multi-Stakeholder State Action Plan (SAP) Implementation and Monitoring Committee (SMIMC), in partnership with the CLEEN Foundation and the Royal Norwegian Embassy, has joined the global community in commemorating the 2025 International 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, held annually from November 25 to December 10.
In a statement signed by its Chairperson, Saadatu Hamma, the Committee expressed deep concern over the persistent insecurity affecting parts of Kaduna State and Nigeria at large, citing rising incidents of kidnapping, terrorism, and banditry. These trends, it noted, continue to destabilise communities, disrupt livelihoods, and expose women, girls, and other vulnerable groups to heightened protection risks.
The SMIMC also referenced the recent designation of Nigeria as a “country of concern” by the United States, describing it as a stark reminder of the urgent need for coordinated responses to insecurity, human rights abuses, and gender-based violence.
The Committee warned that the worsening security situation has intensified the vulnerabilities of women and girls, exposing them to increased risks of sexual and gender-based violence, displacement, disruptions to education and healthcare, exploitation, trauma, and long-term psychosocial challenges.
It also noted that the exclusion of women from peacebuilding and decision-making processes remains a major obstacle to sustainable peace efforts.
Under the Kaduna State Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security (KADSAP), the SMIMC reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening early warning and response systems, improving coordinated services for survivors of gender-based violence, enhancing the role of women in peace and governance structures, and deepening collaborations with security agencies, traditional institutions, civil society organisations, and development partners.
The Committee urged government authorities to intensify security operations and ensure the protection of all communities, especially those in high-risk areas.
It called on security agencies to adopt gender-sensitive approaches, strengthen safe reporting channels, and build trust with affected populations. Traditional and community leaders were encouraged to protect women and girls and speak out against all forms of violence.
Similarly, civil society groups and the media were urged to continue amplifying peace messaging, counter misinformation, and promote survivor-centred advocacy. Women’s groups and youth networks were encouraged to engage actively in grassroots peacebuilding, dialogue, and community resilience initiatives.
Reaffirming its dedication to advancing the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) Agenda in Kaduna State, the SMIMC stated that sustainable peace, security, and development remain unattainable without the full inclusion, protection, and leadership of women and girls.
