The Challenges We are Addressing

Nigeria faces significant security challenges, with women and marginalized populations bearing the brunt of violence and exclusion. In northwest Nigeria, escalating gender-based violence (GBV) and limited access to justice services create a dangerous environment for vulnerable communities. Many cases remain unreported due to low public trust, cultural barriers, and inadequate support systems for survivors.

The extension of our intervention to Katsina State recognizes that these challenges transcend state boundaries and require sustained, coordinated responses across the region. Traditional and religious leaders often serve as first responders to GBV cases but lack the necessary training to provide appropriate support to survivors.

Our Approach

Building on the success of Phase I, PWAN expanded its community-driven strategy to three states with the addition of Katsina State. Through strategic partnerships with security agencies, traditional institutions, and civil society organizations, we implemented comprehensive interventions that address both immediate needs and long-term systemic change.

Our approach centres on empowering local communities to take ownership of their safety and security while strengthening formal justice mechanisms. By combining grassroots engagement with institutional capacity building, we create sustainable pathways to justice for marginalized populations.

 Project Locations – Phase II Expansion

– Kaduna State (Kaduna North, Kaduna South, Chikun, Zaria LGAs)

– Niger State (Bosso, Suleja, Bida, Lapai, Kontagora LGAs)

– Katsina State (Katsina LGA, Batagarawa LGA, Funtua zone) – New addition in Phase II

 Key Project Activities & Achievements – Phase II

 Strengthened Mixed Observer Teams (MOTs)

Our community-based MOTs continued their vital work across all three states, with enhanced capacity and expanded reach:

– 69 MOT members received advanced 3-day capacity building in Niger State

– MOTs established reporting outposts in Rigasa District, Kaduna State, creating accessible channels for community members

– 40 Gender-Based Violence Ambassadors trained and commissioned by Lapai MOT in Niger State

– MOTs successfully lobbied for the formal registration of their platforms as Community-Based Organizations

 Expanded Legal Services

Phase II significantly enhanced access to justice through our Police Duty Solicitor Scheme:

– 2,827 detainees received legal support across 15 police divisions

– 1,445 individuals successfully released on bail through PDSS intervention

– 81 pro bono cases handled by PDSS lawyers, with particular focus on vulnerable populations

– 52 detainees in Katsina State received ongoing legal representation

 Comprehensive Training Programs

We equipped key stakeholders with essential skills and knowledge:

– 210 traditional and religious leaders trained across all three states on GBV prevention and response

– 70 women leaders received specialized training on advocacy strategies and survivor-centred approaches

– Police officers across all states trained on GBV case management and legal frameworks

– 26 Women-Led Organizations strengthened through capacity building initiatives

 Community Outreach and Awareness

Phase II achieved unprecedented reach through targeted awareness campaigns:

– 1,802 community members reached through 21 physical awareness sessions

– 222 Persons with Disabilities specifically engaged through inclusive programming

– Targeted sessions conducted at schools, correctional facilities, and community centres

– Multi-language delivery ensuring accessibility for diverse populations

 Institutional Partnerships

Strategic collaborations enhanced project sustainability:

– Chief Judge of Katsina State waived filing fees for all PWAN-referred cases

– Advocacy visits to traditional rulers, including Emir of Minna, secured high-level commitment

 Innovation and Sustainability

Phase II prioritized long-term sustainability and demonstrates that community-driven approaches, when supported by appropriate institutional partnerships, can create lasting change in addressing gender-based violence and improving access to justice for marginalized populations across northwest Nigeria.