Art as Advocacy: Project Ebulejonu Drives Campaign Against Gender-Based Violence in Kogi
Lokoja came alive with a vibrant blend of art, culture and advocacy as stakeholders marked International Women’s Day 2026, using creative expression to amplify the fight against gender-based violence (GBV) and harmful traditional practices in Kogi State.
Held under the global theme, “Rights. Action. Justice for All Women and Girls,” the event spotlighted Project Ebulejonu, a transformative initiative led by Protect the Child Foundation (PTCF) with support from the French Embassy Fund.
Speaking at the event, the Executive Director of PTCF, Barrister Elizabeth Achimugu, described the gathering as more than a celebration, noting that it served as a bold platform to amplify voices, showcase impact and reaffirm collective commitment to ending Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) in the state.
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She emphasised the role of culture as a powerful tool for social change, explaining that the project simplifies critical legal frameworksincluding the Child Rights Law, the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Law and the Disability Law to make justice more accessible to ordinary citizens.
“But beyond the stage, the real story lies in the lives transformed,” Achimugu said. “Implemented across Lokoja and Idah Local Government Areas, Project Ebulejonu is building an inclusive society where the rights of women, children and persons with disabilities are protected and upheld.”
According to her, within less than a year, the project reached over 3,600 individuals through targeted sensitisation campaigns, helping to break the silence around SGBV and encouraging communities to speak up and take action.
A key component of the initiative is economic empowerment. No fewer than 92 women and adolescent girls were trained in vocational skills such as tailoring, catering, cosmetology and cinematography.
“Today, the results speak for themselve 86.7 per cent of beneficiaries are actively using these skills to generate income, while 68 per cent report significant increases in earnings,” she noted. She added that all beneficiaries were supported with start-up kits such as sewing machines and ovens to ensure a smooth transition from training to entrepreneurship.
Achimugu further explained that the vocational training programme incorporated mentorship, skills acquisition, access to funding and market linkages.
For many participants, the programme marked a turning point, enabling them to become financially independent and contribute meaningfully to their households.
The project also strengthened collaboration among more than 20 stakeholders, including government agencies, civil society organisations, religious institutions and traditional leaders, ensuring a coordinated approach to tackling SGBV.
“As the curtains fall on this event, one message is clear: lasting change is possible when awareness meets action, and empowerment is paired with opportunity,” Achimugu added. “Project Ebulejonu has not only raised awareness—it has restored dignity, created livelihoods and sparked a movement.”
One of the beneficiaries, Grace Ojoma John, shared her experience:
“Before the project, I had no stable source of income. Now, I run my own business. I have secured a space in Phase 2, Lokoja, where I sell daily. I make doughnuts, egg rolls and pastries, and I supply vendors who resell. I earn more than ₦20,000 monthly as profit. This has not only helped my family financially but has also given me confidence—I finally feel productive.”
Another beneficiary, Fatima Ibrahim, emphasised the importance of awareness:
“It is very important for parents and young people to learn about this. The awareness helps people avoid abuse. Some young people remain in abusive relationships and keep going back, which is not right.
“I want to advise youths not to depend entirely on their partners. Have your own source of income, even if it is small. Do not stay with someone who abuses you. Fathers should stop abusing mothers, and mothers should not remain silent. Teenagers should know that there are organisations that can help them.”
Also speaking, Dr. Atule Stanley, Director of Gender-Based Violence at the Kogi State Ministry of Justice Directorate, highlighted the impact of school-based interventions.
“Following the launch, the Directorate of GBV in collaboration with the Concerned Youths and Teens Forum of Nigeria (CONYOUTH) carried out school sensitisation programmes and inaugurated Anti-GBV Clubs in selected schools,” he said.
“During these engagements, copies of simplified laws were distributed to students and school authorities. This has significantly improved students’ understanding of their rights and responsibilities, while equipping them with the knowledge to recognise, prevent and report abuse.
“The availability of these resources in schools has strengthened advocacy efforts, empowered young people and fostered a culture of respect, protection and accountability. The Anti-GBV Clubs are already serving as platforms for peer education, dialogue and early reporting of harmful practices.”
Other participants at the event commended the initiative and pledged to sustain the fight against SGBV through creative performances, storytelling and artistic engagement.
Dignitaries present included the Director of Gender-Based Violence at the Kogi State Ministry of Justice, Dr. Stanley Atule; the President of the Kogi State Network of NGOs, represented by Secretary Joshua Ben; the representative of the Commissioner of Police, ASP Blessing Simon; members of the Child Protection Network; the Onu Igala Kabba; Coordinator of AAON, Chief Onuche Zico; President of the African Women Lawyers Association (Kogi Chapter), Joy Akinola, Esq.; alongside artists, beneficiaries, children’s parliament,
Women and other stakeholders.
(DEMOCRACY NEWSLINE NEWSPAPER, MARCH 31ST 2026)
