Stakeholders have rallied psychosocial support for children affected by crises in Katsina, aimed at helping them cope with trauma and emotional distress.
The call was made on Wednesday during the presentation of the Education Cannot Wait-funded project overview in Katsina. The project is implemented by Save the Children International, in collaboration with GoalPrime Organisation Nigeria.
Mustapha Yusuf, SCI advocacy and campaign officer, stated that the initiative is being implemented under the ECW Integrated Emergency Response Project in North-West Nigeria.
He explained that the project supports children and families affected by conflict, displacement, and poverty in Katsina, Zamfara, and Kaduna.
According to him, it also seeks to improve access for children with disabilities to inclusive services and strengthen referral systems for survivors of violence.
He added that the project aims to boost awareness and use of referral pathways for vulnerable children and those with special needs.
Tijjani Umar, director of social protection at the Ministry for Budget and Economic Planning, said the Katsina government had established a gender-based violence centre.
He noted that the ministry ensures the timely release of approved funds and continues to provide necessary support for the centre’s effective operation. He added that plans are underway to establish similar centres in Daura and Funtua zones to strengthen GBV referral systems across the state.
According to him, the government also assists with the medical bills of victims of banditry, particularly affected children.
Aminu Aminu-Ibrahim, director of civil litigation at the Ministry of Justice, stated that the issues discussed have legal backing, particularly regarding GBV and disability inclusion. He explained that child protection and related laws already exist, but stressed the need for stronger implementation across relevant institutions.
Mr Aminu-Ibrahim added that children affected by crises deserve proper attention to safeguard their mental health and overall well-being.
According to Ibrahim Bala-Gora, manager of the Katsina Sexual Assault Referral Centre, the centre provides integrated services with doctors, nurses, and police personnel on-site.
Other speakers included representatives from the Hisbah Board, the Ministry of Women Affairs, the Human Rights Commission, and the Department of Girl Child Education and Child Development.
(NAN)