Agency
Curbing gender-based violence can be achieved through good parenting, the Mandate Secretary, Women Affairs Secretariat, FCT Administration, Dr Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi, has asserted.
She stated this at a sensitisation campaign and training, organised to commemorate the 2024 World Family Day, in Abuja on Wednesday.
The event, organised by the Family Department in the Secretariat, is part of a two-day programme to commemorate the day, and it included a seminar for stakeholders and a road show to sensitise Abuja residents to good parenting practices.
The mandate secretary, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Alhaji Adetoye Kolawole, described the family as the bedrock of any nation and harped on the fundamental role of families in shaping society, which she said in the long run, would help to address the incidence of GBV in communities.
She stressed the need for good parenting practices that would help to nurture a positive environment for children to grow, thrive and treat one another with dignity.
Benjamins-Laniyi identified key principles for effective parenting as love, care, listening and encouraging good deeds, and consistent discipline.
According to her, families should serve as role models, not only for their children but for others in the community.
She said, “As we celebrate World Family Day today, there is a need for us to acknowledge that the family is the bedrock of our nation.”
Also speaking, Mrs Beatrice Mubi, Assistant Director, Persons with Disabilities Department, lamented that every day, parents with disabilities navigate through everyday challenges and turn obstacles into opportunities.
She added, “Their determination and love demonstrate that the essence of parenting is not defined by physical ability but by the depth of one’s commitment, love, and dedication to their family.
“Family is the cornerstone of our society, and within this cornerstone, parents with disabilities are shining examples of what it means to nurture, protect, and inspire our families for greatness.
“They remind us that true strength lies in our ability to love unconditionally and to rise above adversity.
“As we recognise the efforts of PWDs in good parenting, let us honour their contributions; let us support and uplift them.
“This will ensure that every family, regardless of ability, has the opportunity to thrive.”
On her part, Mrs Lois Amele, a legal practitioner, pointed out that social norms and power imbalances contribute to the high prevalence of GBV in communities.
She noted that GBV not only harms victims physically and emotionally but also disrupts the overall harmony and stability of the family unit.
Also, a GBV advocate, Mrs Amaka Fowora, stressed the importance of communication, mutual respect, and support systems in curbing GBV.
According to her, families must cultivate a loving and peaceful home to be able to break the cycle of violence that disrupts cohesion among family members.
Also, a social worker with a non-governmental organization, Breakthrough Nigeria Initiative, Mrs Agnes Shekwo, underscored the benefits of family planning.
She said some of the benefits include improved health outcomes for mothers and children, economic stability, and enhanced quality of life.
(NAN)
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