B-SARC & ActionAid Unite Under Mrs. Linda Ene Ochigbo-Dirisu to Tackle GBV in Benue

The Benue State Government through the Benue State Sexual Assault Referral Centre (B-SARC), in partnership with @ActionAid Nigeria under the coordination of Mrs Linda Ene Ochigbo-Dirisu is proud to launch the Multi-stakeholder Action for the Prevention of Gender-Based Violence in Benue state

It is noted that, this is the first time a governor is genuinely concerned about the fight for GBV in Benue state

(MAP-GBV) Project begins with a community sensitisation across three local governments in Benue state

Makurdi, Guma, and Obi Local Government Areas.

This vital initiative is designed to tackle the root causes of gender-based violence (GBV), strengthen support systems for survivors, and promote lasting change through community-driven and institutional actions, engaging multistakeholders like religious leaders and traditional rulers

Project Goal:

Contribute towards women and girls living with reduced GBV and fear of it through effective GBV prevention programming, using a multi-stakeholder approach.

Project Objectives:

Enhance knowledge, attitudes, and practices of faith-based and traditional actors to change religious and socio-cultural norms that exacerbate violence against women and girls (VA WG).

Improve the performance of Benue State government institutions in GBV prevention and response.

Assessment among traditional and faith actors in 6 LGAs (Makurdi, Guma, Logo. Kwande. Obi, Agatu)

2-Day GBV Sensitisation & Capacity 2 Building Workshop for 30 faith actors and traditional rulers

Community Mobilisation & Dialogues with IEC material distribution

Capacity Building Workshop for 30 frontline responders police, health workers, welfare officers)

Policy Roundtable & Stakeholder Engagement with State GBV Task Force and MDAs (Institutional Strengthening

Establishment/Support of Community GBV Watch Team (1 per LGA)

We’re working with local authorities, civil society groups, and public institutions to strengthen legal frameworks, improve GBV response mechanisms, and promote survivor-centred justice.

A Call to Action:

Gender-based violence is not just a private issue—it’s a community crisis that demands a united response. The MAP-GBV Project is a bold step toward a future where every person in Benue State can live free from violence, fear, and discrimination.