The Minister for Justice and Attorney-General of the Federation, Mr. Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), has emphasized the Federal Government of Nigeria’s dedication to nurturing and sustaining the advancements achieved through the EU-UN Spotlight Initiative, aimed at eradicating violence against women and girls in the country.
Speaking at the handover ceremony of the EU-UN Spotlight Initiative to the government of Nigeria, Minister Fagbemi underscored the enduring impact of collective efforts, stating, “The seeds of change have been sown, and it is our responsibility to nurture and sustain the progress we have made.”
The collaboration, he highlighted, not only provided financial support but also invaluable expertise and technical guidance. Fagbemi affirmed the Ministry of Justice’s unwavering commitment to upholding justice, equality, and human rights, ensuring the lasting integration of the Spotlight Initiative’s legacy into the fabric of Nigerian society.
To demonstrate the government’s commitment, the Attorney General disclosed ongoing efforts to install DNA Forensic Laboratories in the National Hospital, Abuja, and Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH). Furthermore, he announced the imminent launch of a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for the Prosecution of School Related Gender Based Violence in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Education, under the EU-UN Spotlight Initiative funding. The SOP aims to provide guidelines for detecting and responding to gender-based violence in the nation’s schools.
UN Resident Coordinator in Nigeria, Mr. Mathias Schmale, commended the Spotlight Initiative’s impact, noting changes in laws, policies, and the provision of vital services to almost 16,500 women and girls. Despite progress, he emphasized the ongoing vulnerability of women and girls to gender-based violence, urging sustained commitment beyond the initiative’s conclusion.
European Union Ambassador to Nigeria, Ms. Samuela Isopi, highlighted the global investment of 500 million euros in the Spotlight Initiative, with 25 million euros allocated to combat gender-based violence in Nigeria. Isopi lauded legislative achievements, such as the passage of the VAPP act in 35 states, and emphasized the need to continue efforts to eradicate sexual and gender-based violence.
Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, acknowledged the noble goals of the Spotlight project, aiming to create a society free from violence and harmful practices for women and girls. He emphasized the government’s commitment to strengthening capacity to investigate, prosecute, and prevent all forms of violence against women and girls in Nigeria.
The joint EU-UN Spotlight Initiative, launched in 2019, has significantly impacted Nigeria, expanding its reach to include persons with disabilities, the socio-economically disadvantaged, adolescent girls, and women. With implementation in five states and the Federal Capital Territory, the initiative has garnered government support, ensuring sustainability and positive collaboration with key stakeholders.
