Makinde reaffirms commitment to combating gender-based violence in Oyo

By Adejayan Gbenga –

Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, on Thursday received a delegation from the Nigeria Governors’ Spouses’ Forum (NGSF) and the Ford Foundation during an advocacy visit, reaffirming his administration’s pledge to tackle sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) in the state.

Led by Mrs. Ominini Makinde, the governor’s wife, the delegation sought Governor Makinde’s support and partnership in advancing measures to combat gender violence in Oyo.

Speaking at the meeting, Governor Makinde emphasised his commitment to creating a safe and secure environment for women and girls. He assured that addressing sexual and gender-based violence would remain a top priority for his administration.

“Our administration has the political will to address sexual and gender-based violence in Oyo State. We are determined to ensure that our girls and women are protected and safe at all times,” he said.

Governor Makinde also pledged that the government would allocate the necessary resources to combat SGBV effectively and stressed that offenders would be held accountable under the law.

The delegation commended the governor’s proactive stance on women’s safety and expressed optimism about collaborating with the state government to achieve their shared objectives. They highlighted the importance of partnerships in building sustainable interventions against SGBV.

Meanwhile, the state’s first lady, Mrs. Ominini Makinde, reiterated the commitment of the Ford Foundation and NGSF to supporting the state government in promoting gender equity, advocacy, and social protection for vulnerable populations.