By Chibuzo Ihegboro
A call has been made for an increased funding in light of the proposed repeal and re-enactment of the VAPP Act, which aims to address existing gaps and challenges in the legislation
The call which was made by the Women Advocates Research and Documentation Centre (WARDC), in collaboration with Care International, has called for increased funding to combat Sexual and Gender Based Violence (SGBV) in Nigeria.
The group made the call in Abuja on Wednesday at a press conference, themed, ‘Building Consensus on Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act: Strengthening and Ensuring Accountability on SGBV.’
The acting Executive Director of WARDC, Emmanuelle Azu, said adequate funding and sustained advocacy are crucial in achieving a violence-free society for all.
Ms Azu said a violence-free society will translate to an improvement in the economic and social development of the nation.
The call for increased funding comes in light of the proposed repeal and re-enactment of the VAPP Act, which aims to address existing gaps and challenges in the legislation.
Ms Azu said that while the proposed amendments are necessary, they must be accompanied by a robust financial commitment to ensure effective implementation.
“There is a great need for an inclusive allocation criterion that prioritises gender equity in all areas and sectors of the nation,” she said.
“We call for increased funding for full implementation and we demand at least 0.5 per cent from the total national tax for improved awareness-raising campaigns and stronger enforcement mechanisms.”