By Queen Kunde
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Taraba State has stepped up efforts to fight gender-based violence, partnering with an international-backed organisation to improve how such cases are handled.
Officials of Feminism Lab, a non-governmental organisation, visited the NSCDC State Command Headquarters in Jalingo on Monday to seek stronger collaboration in addressing gender-based violence (GBV) across the state.
The visit is part of a project aimed at strengthening women’s movements in North-East Nigeria. The group said it plans to organise a training programme in Jalingo that will bring together NSCDC personnel and other key stakeholders to improve coordination and response to GBV cases.
Speaking during the meeting, the Project Coordinator of Feminism Lab, Hauwa Mustapha, said the training would help clarify the roles of different agencies involved in handling GBV cases, leading to better results for victims.
She revealed that their findings showed the NSCDC has handled the highest number of GBV cases among security agencies in Taraba State, urging the Corps to maintain public trust.
Responding, the State Commandant, Anthony Bala Bitrus, praised the organisation for standing up for victims, many of whom suffer in silence and struggle to get justice.
He reaffirmed the NSCDC’s commitment to protecting women and vulnerable groups, describing the Corps as a gender-friendly organisation ready to support all efforts to curb such crimes.
The Commandant also called for wider participation in the planned training, suggesting that beyond Gender Desk Officers, the NSCDC Special Female Squad and the Peace and Conflict Resolution Unit should be included due to their key roles in handling GBV issues.
The meeting highlighted the need for stronger cooperation among security agencies and stakeholders to better protect victims and reduce cases of gender-based violence in Taraba State.
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