…Akpabuyo LGA Marks 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence
Ikot Nakanda– On Friday a Town Hall Meeting was held at the Akpabuyo Local Government Headquarters to commemorate the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV). Organized by Gender And Development Action (GADA), the event was themed “Addressing Gender-Based Violence and Fostering Safer Communities in the LGAs,” NEGROIDHAVEN can confirm.
The meeting brought together key stakeholders, including the Wife of the Executive Chair of Akpabuyo, Deborah Effiom Bassey, who delivered a passionate speech on the urgent need to combat GBV. She emphasized that GBV is not a distant issue but a pressing challenge affecting families directly, urging collective responsibility in eradicating it. “Ending GBV starts with all of us – educating ourselves, speaking out, and advocating for policies that protect women and girls,” Bassey stated.
In a similar vein, Alice Christopher Effiom, the Wife of the Vice Chairman, highlighted the importance of gender equality and fostering a safer community for all.
The event was anchored by Bassey Etim, AMCISR, MNIM, Program Assistant for Communication and Training at GADA and Speaker of the Akpabuyo Youth Parliament. It witnessed robust participation from community leaders, including Hon. Tete Oyoyo Ubene, Councillor of Nakanda Ward, and Juliet Bassey, Secretary of the Council. Traditional Chiefs, youth leaders, and representatives of GADA’s Community Crisis Management Teams from Ikot Oyom and Akwa Ikot Effanga were also present.
The leadership team from GADA included Nnenna Ugbor, Acting Program Manager, Queeneth Henshaw, Program Officer, and Goodness Archibong, Finance Assistant. Their collaboration with Akpabuyo Local Government was instrumental in ensuring the success of the event.
According to Ekpo Effiom the Chief Press Secretary, CPS to the Executive Chair under the leadership of Akpabuyo Local Government Chairman, Hon. Effiom Bassey Effiong, the LGA has intensified efforts to tackle GBV through awareness campaigns, community engagement, and policy advocacy. The Chairman reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to empowering women and fostering safer communities across Akpabuyo.
The Town Hall Meeting concluded with a call to action for community members to work together in creating a society where women and girls can live without fear, setting a strong foundation for sustainable progress in the fight against GBV.
