UNDP Urges Stronger GBV Integration in Nigeria's Health Program

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has called for a stronger integration of gender-based violence (GBV) responses into Nigeria's Global Fund GC8 Programme. This call was made during a national consultative workshop held in Abuja, which involved representatives from the Federal Ministry of Health, Federal Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Women Affairs, National Human Rights Commission, and civil society organizations.

Onyiny Belinda Ndubuisi, UNDP's gender lead, emphasized the need for effective multi-sector collaboration to ensure that GBV interventions are adequately reflected in Nigeria's GC8 funding proposals. She noted that violence against women and girls undermines access to critical health services, including HIV testing and treatment.

Oyedepo Iseoluwa Rotimi from the Federal Ministry of Justice highlighted the link between GBV and human rights violations, noting that stigma and discrimination hinder vulnerable groups' access to healthcare. Krittayawan Boonto, UNAIDS Country Director for Nigeria, acknowledged the persistent challenge of GBV and its impact on health outcomes, urging stakeholders to ensure clear definitions and adequate funding for GBV interventions.