FCT women seek increased budgetary allocation against SGBV 

A coalition of over 20 women groups in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have called on the FCT minister, area council chairpersons and other stakeholders to increase allocation against sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) in the 2025 budget.

The coalition, comprises of Association of Women in Trade and Agriculture (AWITA), Vaccine Network for Disease Control (VNDC), Women Advocates Research and Documentation Centre (WARDC), African Women’s Development Fund (AWDF), and Nigerian Girl Guides Association FCT Chapter, among others.

The women groups said doing so would support SGBV prevention programs, provide comprehensive services to survivors, hold perpetrators accountable, ensure a gender responsive budget, and also help end the scourge in the FCT.

Aanu Rotimi, Executive Director of the Center for Accountability and Inclusive Development (CAAID), said some studies suggest that the FCT has one of the highest prevalence of SGBV in the country, adding that it is therefore imperative for the FCT leadership including that of the area councils to intentionally prioritize the safety and well-being of women and girls.

She said, “We urge you to prioritize the safety, dignity, and well-being of women and girls in the FCT by increasing budgetary allocation and

strengthening policies and laws to address this pervasive issue.’’

Ruth O. Agbo, President of the Association of Women in Trade and Agriculture (AWITA), emphasized the importance of the VAPP Act in providing legal protection for women and girls, highlighting its crucial role in addressing gender-based violence.