United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has commended the Zamfara State Government for prioritising the welfare of its citizens, particularly women and children, during the inauguration of the Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) at the King Fahad Women and Children Centre in Gusau.
The Country Representative of UNICEF Nigeria, Ms. Mofad Saeed, described the initiative as a strong demonstration of government leadership and dedication to social protection systems.
“This centre provides a safe, confidential, and stigma-free environment for survivors of sexual and gender-based violence, offering medical, psychological, social, and legal support under one roof,” Ms. Saeed said.
The facility, named after the First Lady, Hajiya Huriyya Dauda Lawal, was established by the Zamfara State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development in collaboration with UNICEF.
The First Lady hailed the commissioning as a milestone in safeguarding citizens’ dignity and wellbeing. She emphasised that men and boys, as well as women and girls, are affected by sexual and gender-based violence.
“This centre is more than a building; it is a firm response to a problem affecting families. Every survivor deserves protection, justice, and a safe place to seek help without fear or shame,” she said.
During her visit, Ms. Saeed also inspected several health and nutrition facilities, including the Nutrition and Commodity Warehouse, the Stabilisation Centre for severe acute malnutrition, and Dr. Karima Primary Healthcare Centre, highlighting the importance of monitoring and proper nutritional support for children.
She urged parents to practice exclusive breastfeeding for at least two years and ensure balanced local diets to prevent malnutrition. Additionally, she handed over “School-in-a-Box” kits to support children’s education and reduce out-of-school rates.
The UNICEF team also visited Deputy Governor Malam Mani Malam Mumini, launching the Nutrition Social and Behaviour Change Strategy, signing key partnership documents, extending the Health and Social Insurance Scheme, and handing over Mama Kits to promote safe deliveries in primary healthcare centres.
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