General News
Anglican Communion Urges Action Against Rising Hardship, Violence Against Women and Girls
The Church of Nigeria Anglican Communion has raised the alarm over worsening insecurity, rising cost of living, food scarcity, unemployment and violence against women and girls, calling on the Federal Government to take urgent steps to address the challenges threatening national stability.
The President of the Mothers’ Union, Women’s Guild and Girls’ Guild of the Church, Mrs Angela Ndukuba, made the call during her presentation at this year’s Diocesan Women’s Conference in Abuja. She also urged governments at all levels to strengthen security measures, create employment opportunities, improve access to affordable healthcare and education, and protect vulnerable citizens from the effects of economic hardship.
She expressed concern over persistent kidnapping, terrorism, communal conflicts and other violent incidents, warning that the crisis had continued to threaten lives, livelihoods and family stability across the country.
“The Union calls upon Government at all levels to strengthen the protection of lives and property through effective security measures, timely response to threats, intelligence gathering, community-based security initiatives and improved coordination among relevant security agencies.”
She urged the government to ensure accountability for perpetrators, address the socio-economic conditions contributing to insecurity, and provide support for victims and displaced persons.
The Anglican women’s leader urged Christian organisations to strengthen economic empowerment programmes through vocational training, entrepreneurship development, financial literacy, cooperative initiatives and mentorship to help women and young people achieve sustainable livelihoods.
She stressed the need for deliberate policies to expand access to decent jobs, vocational training, entrepreneurship opportunities and affordable financing for youths.
According to her, unemployment and underemployment can expose young people to crime, substance abuse, exploitation and other harmful social behaviours.
Mrs Ndukuba emphasised the need for governments to strengthen the enforcement of laws protecting women and children, improve access to justice, and provide medical, psychosocial and rehabilitation services for survivors.
“The Union condemns all forms of violence, abuse, exploitation and discrimination against women and girls and calls for concerted efforts to prevent such violations and protect those at risk.”
She urged churches and Christian organisations to establish confidential reporting channels, counselling services and referral mechanisms to protect victims and support survivors.