By Habibu Harisu

The Sokoto State Government, in collaboration with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), has empowered 40 rehabilitated survivors of Vesico Vaginal Fistula (VVF) and Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in the state.

Speaking at the closing ceremony of a five-day livelihood skills training on Thursday, the Commissioner for Women and Children Affairs, Hajiya Hadiza Shagari, said the initiative was part of the government’s broader social support programmes.

She noted that the empowerment effort would provide sustainable means of livelihood for the survivors, enhancing their social and economic well-being.

Shagari also reiterated the state government’s commitment to improving the lives of its citizens, adding that plans were underway to construct additional shelters for VVF patients due to overcrowding at the Fistula Treatment Centre.

According to her, the state, in partnership with various agencies, has continued to offer life-transforming surgeries for women suffering from obstetric fistula and severe perinatal tears.

Shagari explained that empowering and reintegrating survivors into their families and communities would help restore their confidence and dignity.

She urged the beneficiaries to make good use of the business tools and starter kits provided to them, and to play active roles in ending the menace in their communities.

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Dr Abubakar Zayyana, warned beneficiaries against diverting the empowerment items.

Represented by the Permanent Secretary, Hajiya Maryam Barade, Zayyana encouraged effective utilisation of the support provided, emphasising the government’s continued investments in projects aimed at improving the lives of citizens.

He lauded UNFPA for its support, which included 100 caesarean section surgeries, provision of 100 dignity (Mama) kits, numerous medical equipment supplies, surgical operations, and infrastructural development in the state.

Malam Musa Wamakko, the State Desk Officer for UNFPA and Director of International Cooperation in the Ministry of Budget, described UNFPA’s interventions as lifesaving.

He also commended Gov. Ahmad Aliyu for his continued support to UNFPA and other donor agencies, noting that a N850 million counterpart fund was underway to strengthen healthcare and related sectors.

Dr Hadiza Tori, Chief Medical Director of the Maryam Abacha Women and Children Hospital, which hosted the Fistula Centre, added that UNFPA and other partners had bolstered VVF treatment, reintegration, and overall healthcare delivery in the state.

A number of survivors shared emotional testimonies of their journeys, describing the intervention as a symbol of hope and a new beginning.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Mama Kits were handed over to state officials. Items distributed to beneficiaries included soya bean and cake-making utensils, starter ingredients, and transportation tokens. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru