The Edo State Government, through the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, in partnership with the International Organization for Migration (IOM), has officially commissioned a Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) Centre in Uromi, Esan North-East Local Government Area.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Coordinator of the Office of the Edo State First Lady, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, commended the various partner organizations whose contributions made the project possible. She described the Centre as “a beacon of hope for survivors”, noting that it reflects the government’s unwavering commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals and ensuring access to timely support services.
Also addressing participants, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Eugenia Abdallah—represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Joy Ihensekhien—said the commissioning marks a major milestone in the state’s collective efforts to support, empower, and provide justice for survivors of sexual and gender-based violence.
She explained that the establishment of the Centre demonstrates the State Government’s dedication, in collaboration with development partners, to delivering survivor-centred, confidential, and comprehensive services. According to her, the Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) will offer medical care, psychosocial support, legal assistance, investigations, and referrals to ensure that no survivor faces their ordeal alone.
Mrs. Abdallah further stated that the Uromi SARC reaffirms the government’s determination to strengthen response systems, expand safe spaces, and promote a society where all citizens—women, men, girls, and boys—can live free from fear, violence, and discrimination.
Representatives of IOM, the Embassy of Switzerland, the Esan North-East Local Government Chairman, and the Edo State Commissioner of Police also pledged continued collaboration with the state. They assured that efforts will be intensified to protect survivors, ensure access to care and justice, and reinforce the fight against human trafficking and other forms of exploitation.
