𝗢𝘁𝘁𝗶 𝘂𝗻𝘃𝗲𝗶𝗹𝘀 𝗴𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿-𝗯𝗮𝘀𝗲𝗱 𝘃𝗶𝗼𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗽𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗲 𝗰𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝗔𝗯𝗶𝗮

Abia State Governor Alex Otti has commissioned the Nchedo Sexual Assault Referral Centre, a dedicated gender-based violence (GBV) response facility designed to provide comprehensive support services for survivors across the state.

Speaking during the unveiling ceremony, Otti described the initiative as a major step toward protecting vulnerable citizens and strengthening institutional responses to sexual and domestic violence. According to him, the centre will serve as a safe space where survivors can access medical care, legal assistance, psychosocial counselling, and referral services under one roof.

The governor noted that gender-based violence remains a significant challenge in many communities, stressing that the state government is committed to ensuring that survivors receive timely support without stigma or barriers. He added that the establishment of the centre aligns with his administration’s broader agenda to promote human dignity, justice, and social protection.

Officials said the Nchedo Centre will work closely with healthcare providers, security agencies, civil society organisations, and legal practitioners to improve case management and ensure perpetrators are held accountable. The facility is also expected to play a role in public awareness campaigns aimed at preventing abuse and encouraging victims to speak out.

Stakeholders at the event commended the Abia State Government for prioritising survivor-centred services, noting that access to coordinated support can significantly improve recovery outcomes and reduce underreporting of GBV cases.

The commissioning marks another milestone in efforts to expand social welfare and healthcare infrastructure in Abia, with authorities expressing optimism that the centre will help foster safer communities and strengthen trust between citizens and government institutions.