By Ibironke Ariyo
The Devatop Centre for Africa Development has empowered 21 survivors of abuse, exploitation and other forms of violence through its Survivors Empowerment Programme, aimed at promoting healing and economic independence.
Speaking at the event on Friday in Abuja, the Executive Director of the Centre, Mr Joseph Osuigwe, said the materials were provided based on the individual needs and aspirations of each beneficiary.
Osuigwe, represented by Mr Akpana Betiang, a member of Devatop, said the organisation was committed to ensuring that survivors receive holistic support beyond rescue, including long-term empowerment and pathways to self-reliance.
He added that Devatop would continue to collaborate with partners, communities and institutions to create safer environments where survivors could rebuild their lives and access justice.
He said that the programme was supported by the Foreign Aid Bridge Fund, hosted and managed by Panorama Global.
This, he said, enabled Devatop to expand its reach and strengthen interventions against human trafficking and gender-based violence.
“Five survivors received hairdressing tools, four received cooking tools, two were supported with beauty equipment, while two others received tailoring machines.
“One survivor was provided with chemicals for soap-making, and seven survivors received educational support, bringing the total number of empowerment kits distributed to 21,” he said.
Osuigwe said that the programme sought to strengthen partnerships, promote collaboration and address gaps in case management to ensure survivors receive timely support and dignity.
Presenting the materials to beneficiaries, Kababiya Kore, Programme Officer, MeCAHT, stressed the importance of survivor-centred support and economic empowerment for sustainable recovery.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the empowerment programme brought together survivors, frontline responders and community advocates to strengthen survivor-centred support, partnership and long-term recovery.
Participants also engaged in interactive sessions focused on emotional wellness, personal safety, skills development and access to referral services as part of efforts to ensure holistic survivor support.
Devatop Centre for Africa Development is a non-governmental organisation focused on human rights education, anti-human trafficking advocacy, gender-based violence prevention and community empowerment across Nigeria. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Yakubu Uba
