IDP Sensitization Outreach

FAME Foundation in partnership with the French embassy organized an IDP Sensitization outreach to commemorate the ongoing 16 days of activism. The event was held on 9 December, 2023 at the Durumi IDP Camp, Area 1, Abuja.

The event aimed to engage and empower men in the fight against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) through awareness and campaign, to increase awareness and active engagement of men in the fight against GBV, to empower communities, particularly in IDP camps, through education and awareness, to strengthen networks and support systems for men to actively contribute to the elimination of GBV, to position men as agents and ambassadors in the fight against GBV.

Ms Exploit Ofem started the event by explaining and analyzing GBV to the men in order for them to comprehend the concept and reason for the event. She described the effects of GBV on its victims as well as the ramifications of such activities.

Engr. Tunde Olabiyi, the first speaker, spoke about the value of women in society. He spoke about men respecting other women as if they were their own sisters, moms, and friends. He stressed how valuable women are and how their worth cannot be overstated. He also asked men to acknowledge that GBV is a violation of women’s rights and a severe injustice. He noted that GBV not only damages individual women, but it also undermines the progress and equality that women have worked for. He urged the men that it is critical for them to join together and unify against GBV, supporting and empowering women in every way they can.

The second speaker, Mr Yamusa Emmanuel focused on gender-based violence against men. He stated that it is important to recognize that men can also be victims of GBV. He described various forms GBV against men can take, including physical, sexual, and emotional abuse. He also emphasized on how crucial it is to create a safe space for men to come forward and seek support if they have experienced GBV.

He told the men that he knows that a lot of men don’t speak up about GBV that has happened to them. Society often perpetuates the idea that men should be strong and invulnerable, which can make it difficult for them to come forward and seek support. He told the men to speak up and shouldn’t feel ashamed. He told them that speaking up is the beginning of healing from any trauma they may be experiencing as victims.

He also emphasized on how crucial it is to create a safe space for men to come forward and seek support if they have experienced GBV.

He admitted to the men that he was aware of the silence around GBV incidents among men. Men may find it challenging to ask for help because of the societal perception that they should be tough and unflappable. He advised the males not to be ashamed and to speak up. He informed them that the first step towards recovering from any trauma they could be going through as victims is to speak up.

The participants interacted with the speakers, asked questions and also made contributions. The event ended successfully