key Stakeholders in Bayelsà State have called for stronger partnerships, increased funding and sustained action to create a safer and more just society for survivors of gender-based violence. They made the call at a fundraising cocktail for the Hall of Fame Project, organised by the Do-Foundation, closer tv and its partners in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital, to raise funds to support survivors of gender-based violence and intervention on rising cases. In her welcome address, Founder of the Do-Foundation, Dr. Dise Goddy-Harry, said the gathering was not merely a celebration, but an opportunity to raise critical funds and strengthen interventions for women, girls and other survivors of gender-based violence. Dr. Goddy-Harry stressed that survivors often require urgent medical attention, legal assistance, counselling, protection and safe accommodation. She urged guests to look beyond the glamour of the event and focus on the human stories behind the cause. The Do-Foundation founder said tackling gender-based violence requires the collective efforts of government, civil society organisations, professionals, law-enforcement agencies, philanthropists, activists and members of the public. Declaring the event open, Professor Felix Omemu, called for greater support for the fundraising initiative, describing it as an important contribution to humanity and societal development.
Professor Omemu described the initiative as a gender-related matter and stressed the importance of strong leadership in ensuring its success. He commended the Do-foundation for its efforts, saying the initiative would contribute to creating a better future for society. Equally speaking, President-General of Ohaneze Ndigbo in Bayelsa. State, Dr Frank Odunukwe, also commended the organizers of the event, describing it as an initiative that has gained recognition beyond the state. Dr. Odunukwe, who praised Do-Foundation founder for promoting the event and noted that its visibility has reached Bayelsans and their friends abroad. In separate remarks, Permanent Secretary, State Pensions Board, Mr. Alex Ogregade, a lecturer at NDU, Professor Stanley Udisi, State Vice Chairman of NUJ, Dr. Enebrato Preye and Girl-child advocate, Gloria Wodu, emphasised the need to support survivors and ensure that no victim is abandoned or denied access to justice and protection. Also speaking, General Manager of NTA Yenagoa, Mrs. Mary Ekanem, Public Relations Officer, Collins Cocodia Foundation, Mr. Bilyaminu Muhammadu, Brakes Ohaka esq and Miss Ebimopa Tam-Kwokwo esq of the gender unit ministry of justice , called for renewed commitment to ensuring that no survivor suffers in silence, no victim is denied justice, and no person lives in fear because of gender-based violence. The stakeholders urged individuals and organisations to support initiatives that provide medical, legal, psychological and protective services to survivors of gender-based violence.