On 26 November, 2025, the Caritas Nigeria Protection Project team in Benue State, hosted a high-level protection engagement in Yelwata community, Guma Local Government Area of the state. The dignitaries, including the UNHCR Nigeria Deputy Country Representative (Protection), Bernadette Mukakale Mutesi, the UNHCR Nigeria Head of Sub Office (HoSO) Ogoja, Irene Omondi, the Director of Women at the Benue State Ministry of Women Affairs, Mrs Magdalene Andor, and the Coordinator of the Benue State Sexual Assault Referral Centre, Mrs Linda Ene, visited the community to advance key protection interventions. The visit featured peacebuilding activities and focused group discussions (FGDs) with men and women, centring on protection risks, existing community capacities, and preferred solutions to strengthen safety and resilience. Community members contributed meaningfully, reflecting their commitment to promoting peaceful coexistence and safeguarding vulnerable groups. A major highlight of the day was the official launch of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence (GBV). To reinforce the message of solidarity, the youths of Yelwata organized a novelty football match tagged “Yelwata He-for-She Match”, symbolizing the critical role men and boys play in ending GBV. In her closing remarks, the UNHCR Nigeria Deputy Country Representative (Protection) commended the community for their resilience amid displacement. She urged them to remain steadfast, reject all forms of online and offline violence, and actively promote the inclusion of women in decision-making processes that advance peace and sustainable development in the community. #SDGs #16days #Stopgbv #Protection #Refugeeresponse #16daysofactivism
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