FIC Report (Imo State) – Imo State has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening institutional responses to Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) and promoting women’s economic empowerment through collaboration with the Nigeria Governors’ Spouses’ Forum (NGSF) and the Ford Foundation.
Governor Hope Uzodimma gave the assurance while receiving a delegation of the Nigeria Governors’ Spouses’ Forum, accompanied by representatives of the Ford Foundation and led by the First Lady of Imo State, Chief Barr. (Dr.) Chioma Uzodimma, on an advocacy visit to Government House, Owerri.
The advocacy engagement focused on mobilising political support for policies that strengthen institutional responses to Sexual and Gender-Based Violence, prevent harmful social norms that perpetuate abuse, and promote sustainable measures for the protection of women and girls.
Governor Uzodimma described Sexual and Gender-Based Violence as a serious social challenge that undermines development and national progress if left unchecked. He noted that the Imo State Government has consistently supported anti-SGBV campaigns and implemented deliberate legislative and institutional measures to eliminate the menace while ensuring a safer environment for women and girls.
The governor further pledged the state’s support for the domestication of the Women’s Economic Empowerment (WEE) Policy, recognising economic empowerment as a critical strategy for addressing the structural factors that expose women and girls to violence and vulnerability.
He also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to prioritising SGBV prevention through strengthened legislation, effective implementation of existing laws, improved referral systems, adequate budgetary support for survivor protection and response mechanisms, as well as sustained collaboration with relevant stakeholders.
Governor Uzodimma commended the Nigeria Governors’ Spouses’ Forum and the Ford Foundation for championing gender equality, family welfare and community development, noting that collective action among governments, development partners and civil society remains essential to ending Sexual and Gender-Based Violence across the country.
The advocacy visit forms part of broader national efforts to strengthen institutional frameworks for protecting vulnerable groups and advancing inclusive development in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which prioritises social inclusion, human capital development and improved welfare for all Nigerians.
CHIKA ANURUNWA
PIPRO/ANIPR
2/7/2026
