The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) has strengthened its strategic partnership with the EU Support to End Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Programme in Nigeria.
Executive Secretary, NCPWD, Hon. Ayuba Burki Gufwan made the commitment when he received a delegation from the EU Support to End Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Programme (EU-ESGBV) at the Commission’s headquarters on Thursday, June 18, 2026.
Hon. Gufwan commended the EU-ESGBV for the initiative and reaffirmed NCPWD’s readiness to collaborate to end sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) in Nigeria, particularly against persons with disabilities who are disproportionately affected.
The EU delegation was led by Melissa Omene, GBV Policy and Strategy Development Specialist, and Juliet Olumuyiwa Rufia, GBV Cross-Sector Service Provision and Protection Specialist. They said the visit was to formally introduce the programme, establish a lasting partnership, and explore collaboration in policy development, strategic interventions, and survivor support services.
The delegation emphasized the programme’s commitment to preventing and eliminating SGBV through policy development, institutional strengthening, survivor-centered services, and multi-sectoral collaboration. They highlighted the need to empower survivors through protection services, rehabilitation, and socioeconomic opportunities.
Both parties stressed the importance of inclusive policies and coordinated strategies to address the unique challenges persons with disabilities face in accessing justice, protection, and support services.
The partnership is expected to strengthen advocacy, improve service delivery, and promote a safer, more inclusive society where all individuals, regardless of ability, are protected from SGBV.
The EU Support to End Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (EU-ESGBV) Programme supports Nigeria’s efforts to prevent and respond to SGBV through policy, institutions, survivor services, and multi-sectoral collaboration.
Signed:
Ishaku Kigbu (anipr)
Head Media and Publicity
National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD)
June 19, 2026
