The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has intensified efforts to combat Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV), including technology-facilitated abuse, while promoting women’s participation in peacebuilding and security decision-making.
The initiative, anchored on the Corps’ Gender Policy II, also seeks to strengthen gender equality, protection and inclusive security across its operations and local communities.
The Commandant General of the NSCDC, Professor Ahmed Abubakar Audi, made this known in a keynote address delivered on his behalf at a two-day Gender, Women, Peace and Security Capacity-Building Training held at the NSCDC College and Support Staff Service in Udege, Nasarawa State.
The training was organised in collaboration with Strengthening Peace and Resilience in Nigeria (SPRING), with support from the United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).
Audi described Gender Policy II as a framework for integrating gender considerations into the Corps’ operations, personnel management, leadership and community engagement.
He stressed the need for effective prevention and response mechanisms against sexual and gender-based violence, particularly conflict-related violence and technology-facilitated abuse.
The NSCDC chief also called for greater participation of women in peacebuilding and security decision-making, equal opportunities within the Corps and stronger partnerships with government institutions, traditional rulers, civil society organisations and development partners.
He urged commands and personnel, particularly Gender Desk Officers, to ensure effective coordination, timely reporting, appropriate referrals, monitoring and accountability in implementing the policy.
As part of efforts to extend the campaign beyond the training venue, the NSCDC partnered with TechHer to conduct sensitisation exercises in selected schools across Udege.
The outreach, themed “Stop Technology-Facilitated Gender-Based Violence (TFGBV),” educated students on the dangers of digital abuse, responsible internet use and practical measures for staying safe online.
TechHer, an organisation focused on advancing women’s empowerment through safe and inclusive technology, supported the initiative by promoting digital literacy, online safety and access to justice.
Speaking at the event, the Gender Equality, Diversity and Social Inclusion Lead of SPRING, Mrs Amina Akano-Bello, said the training was designed to promote peaceful and resilient communities through early identification and response to gender-based violence, as well as the inclusion of women and young people in leadership.
The National Headquarters Gender Unit Adviser, DCC Ajet Kemi, also delivered a presentation examining the different forms of sexual and gender-based violence, their societal implications and preventive measures.
Similarly, former Assistant Commandant General Ahmed Abodurin addressed participants on institutional ethics in gender policy implementation, emphasising professionalism, accountability, gender sensitivity and adherence to institutional standards.
The Osu Ajiri of Edege Chiefdom, His Royal Highness Alhaji Suleiman Ahmed Eko IV, commended the NSCDC for its presence in the community, saying the Corps had strengthened residents’ sense of security.
He pledged the support of the traditional council in addressing gender-based violence, describing the protection of the community as a major priority.
The Commander of the NSCDC College, ACG Jamilu Indabawa, had earlier stressed the importance of stakeholder collaboration in ensuring effective implementation of the gender policy.
Representatives of the Federal Ministry of Interior, Nasarawa State Ministries of Women Affairs and Social Development and Justice, as well as Gammuo International, also expressed support for the initiative.
The NSCDC said the engagement reflects its commitment to strengthening institutional accountability, protecting vulnerable groups and building safer communities through gender-responsive security practices.
