Makinde Moves to Crush Sexual Violence, Backs Spouses’ Forum, Ford Foundation Initiative

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to combating sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV), following an advocacy visit by a delegation from the Nigeria Governors’ Spouses' Forum and the Ford Foundation.

The delegation, led by the Governor’s wife, Mrs. Ominini Makinde, met with Governor Makinde as part of ongoing collaborative efforts aimed at strengthening institutional responses to sexual and gender-based violence across the country.

Speaking during the visit, Makinde commended the Forum and its development partners for championing the protection of women and girls, describing the initiative as timely and crucial to fostering safer communities across Oyo State and beyond.

Governor Makinde assured the delegation of his administration’s full support, stressing that his government possesses the political will to decisively confront sexual and gender-based violence and ensure justice for survivors.

“Our administration is committed to ensuring that our girls and women are protected and safe. We will provide the necessary resources to address this scourge and strengthen our systems to ensure that offenders are brought to book,” Makinde stated.

The Governor further emphasized that beyond policy declarations, his administration would continue to invest in public awareness campaigns, strengthen relevant institutions, and enhance enforcement mechanisms to deter perpetrators and provide comprehensive support for survivors.

Earlier, members of the delegation explained that their advocacy visit forms part of a nationwide campaign to deepen collaboration with state governments in tackling sexual and gender-based violence. They highlighted the importance of sustained political commitment, adequate funding, and multi-sectoral partnerships in curbing the menace.

The visit underscores Governor Makinde’s broader commitment to safeguarding the rights, dignity, and safety of women and girls, while reinforcing partnerships between Oyo State, civil society actors, and international development organisations in the collective fight against sexual and gender-based violence.