The President DEPOWA Mrs Oghogho Gwabin Musa was a special guest at the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) 1st Gender and Social Norms summit with the theme ” Voices For Change” on 27 August 2024 held at the Presidential Villa Abuja.

Delivering her remark, the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu canvassed stiffer laws and penalties for offenders in the wake of the alarming rate of rape cases and gender-based violence nationwide.
Senator Oluremi Tinubu urged law enforcement agencies and relevant authorities to take decisive action.

She expressed concern over the increased spate of rape cases and gender-based violence ( GBV), which she described as alarming.
She noted that the summit provides a common platform, especially for stakeholders, including Wives of State Governors, to create awareness, exchange lessons learned, and promote effective strategies for preventing and responding to GBV and harmful social norms.

In his speech at the occasion, Minister of Education, Tahir Mamman, emphasised the critical role of education in addressing GBV and harmful social norms.
The minister pointed out that girls are more vulnerable than boys and require better facilities, hygiene, and safety measures in schools.

Also speaking, the Deputy Representative of UNFPA, Koessan Kuawu, noted that the summit represents a united effort to tackle pressing issues affecting millions of women and girls in Nigeria.

In attendance was the President NAOWA, Wives of Governors’, Minister for Women Affairs, Barr. Uju Kennedy- Ohanenye; commissioners of women affairs from some states of the federation, traditional leaders, and various stakeholders.