The CLEEN Foundation, in collaboration with various stakeholders, paid a courtesy visit to the Benue State Peace and Reconciliation Commission.
The event brought together key stakeholders, including members of the HeForShe Network, Women Mediation Network, media representatives, advocates from the Ministry of Women Affairs, People with Disabilities (PWD), and other practitioners dedicated to promoting peace in the Benue community.
The visit included seven participants, comprising two men and five women.
During the visit, Dr. Gabriel Akinremi commended the Director General of the Peace Commission, Mrs. Josephine Habba, for her continuous efforts to foster peace in the state.
He acknowledged the commission’s significant contributions, particularly in rural areas across local government areas, emphasizing the role of women in peacebuilding.
He stated, “When women are empowered with education, economic opportunities, and political representation, they are better equipped to contribute to lasting peace.”
Mrs. Magdalene U.I Igbazua, a representative of the National Women Mediators Networks, echoed this sentiment by highlighting the importance of addressing the root causes of violence and inequality.
“Empowering women means protecting them from gender-based violence, human trafficking, and other forms of exploitation,” she said. She added that the issue is not exclusive to women but a global one that affects everyone.
Similarly, Mrs. Magdalene Andor, Director of Women’s Affairs and representative of the Commissioner of Women’s Affairs, praised Mrs. Habba for her leadership and commitment to peace.
She noted, “You’ve been doing a lot, and we continually appreciate your efforts. Your dedication to correcting societal wrongs and promoting peace deserves respect.”
The Ministry of Women Affairs expressed its readiness to work alongside the Peace Commission, reaffirming their commitment to gender equality and empowering women as leaders in peace processes.
“At the Ministry of Women’s Affairs and Social Welfare, we are committed to ensuring that women are not just participants in peace processes but leaders,” Mrs. Andor stated.
In response, Mrs. Josephine Habba appreciated the CLEEN Foundation, UN Women, and other stakeholders present.
She reaffirmed her dedication to building the capacity of women in Benue to promote peace. “To build sustainable peace, women’s voices must be at the table, and their contributions must be equally valued,” she said.
Mrs. Habba also stressed the need for continuous learning and collaboration, pledging to continue her work with or without external funding.
The Director General emphasized the commission’s commitment to combatting gender-based violence and promoting gender equality, stating that women are the bedrock of the nation, community, and state.
She concluded by pledging ongoing support for women mediators in Benue State.
The visit served as a powerful reminder of the critical role women play in fostering peace and the need for continued efforts to empower and protect them.