Fostering Change: Empowering Child Protection and Gender Equality for a Vibrant Future in Nigeria

The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence is a global campaign dedicated to raising awareness and taking action against violence inflicted upon girls and women. During this impactful period, individuals and organizations worldwide unite to advocate for an end to gender-based violence (GBV) and promote gender equality.

As part of our commitment to shedding light on this critical issue, we had the privilege of engaging in a conversation with Dorinda, a passionate advocate actively working towards the elimination of child marriage and various forms of violence targeting girls and women. Through this interview, we aim to amplify her voice and share insights into the challenges she faces, as well as the strategies she employs to combat these pervasive issues. By highlighting individual stories and efforts, we strive to contribute to a broader dialogue that fosters understanding, empathy, and collective action against gender-based violence.

QUESTION 1: Introduce your organisation and talk a bit about the work your organization does.

The Child and Youth Protection Foundation (CYPF) is a non-governmental, non-political, and non-religious organisation established in June 2008. Our mission revolves around collaborating with various entities, including government bodies, religious organisations, schools, communities, and individuals, to ensure the holistic development of Nigerian children and youth.

CYPF implements several projects, notably the information and communications technology or technologies (ICT) for Girls program, legal services, education support schemes, Boys for Change campaign, capacity-building programs, and initiatives focused on gender-responsive budgeting, asset building for girls, and promoting human rights principles within communities. These efforts collectively aim to create a safe, empowered, and informed environment for the growth and protection of children and youth in Nigeria.

QUESTION 2: What inspires you to do this work?

My inspiration to dive into this work emerged during my second degree while studying sexual and reproductive health and rights. Learning about various harmful practices affecting particularly marginalized females, along with real-life narratives shared by my professor, ignited a profound passion within me. Witnessing instances of school dropouts, female molestation, and widespread unawareness about rights among women and girls fuelled my unwavering commitment to advocate for change. Being seen as a beacon of hope, especially for adolescents, has continually fuelled and inspired my dedication to this cause.

QUESTION 3: What support do you need from stakeholders?

As a Gender Advocate for Ending Child Marriage in Nigeria, I've formulated comprehensive concepts for activities aimed at creating an enabling environment, especially for adolescent girls. However, the implementation of these plans is hindered by financial constraints and a lack of partnerships. I earnestly seek collaboration and support from stakeholders for funding and partnerships to execute these activities in Nigerian communities. This collaboration is pivotal in eradicating child marriage, addressing SRHR issues, and creating a conducive environment for Nigerian children, aligning with our commitment to reject the 300-year projection by UNICEF for ending child marriage.

QUESTION 4: If you had 1 minute to talk to any stakeholder, what would you ask for?

Given a minute to address any stakeholder, my plea would be for long-term collaboration and support to implement meticulously planned activities across Nigeria's six geopolitical zones. Our collective aim is to completely eradicate child marriage, significantly reduce SRHR issues, and establish an environment where women and girls thrive and fulfil their potential. Collaborative efforts and sustained support are crucial in making this vision a reality.