Beyond the observable transformations in the nonprofit sector and our initial exploration of AI in business development, project management, and more, AI is also silently presenting a potential revolution in a less anticipated yet profoundly significant domain: the battle against gender-based violence (GBV)

This article aims to glimpse the future and explore AI\’s potential in the nonprofit sector.

AI Chatbots: A New Frontier in GBV Response

AI chatbots could be designed to simulate human conversation to support NGOs and other groups working to prevent GBV and support survivors. These chatbots can provide round-the-clock support, offering immediate responses when human services are unavailable. They can also provide a safe and anonymous space for survivors to seek help and access resources, a critical feature given the fear of stigma or retaliation many survivors face. This could also be an easy way to present the referral pathway and guide through the available services mapping.

One example is the AI-powered chatbot discussed in a UN Women article, which helps women seek information without fear of judgment. Similarly, an Asian Development Bank blog post highlights how chatbots can be programmed to anticipate the information and referral needs of women and girls at risk.

Moreover, AI could be a potent tool that case managers and social workers could use to seek immediate technical support and explore different ways to ensure that they are compliant with the IASC guidelines and case management best practices. Chatbots could also contribute to the capacity building of case managers by role-playing different cases and situations, preparing case managers for various scenarios.

The Future of AI Chatbots in GBV Prevention

Beyond providing support and resources, AI chatbots can also play a role in GBV prevention by using it in education and awareness, reaching a global audience with critical information about GBV. They can help users understand the complexities of GBV, its root causes, and its impact on individuals and communities. By fostering a better understanding of GBV, chatbots can contribute to a culture of prevention and intervention.

In addition, as highlighted in a World Bank discussion, chatbots can also be used to tackle GBV across different cultures and regions, adapting to each area’s unique challenges and contexts. This adaptability makes them a versatile tool in the global fight against GBV. UNESCO and UN Women have also highlighted the potential of AI chatbots in addressing GBV, further emphasizing the growing recognition of this technology\’s role in this critical area.

The potential for AI chatbots in GBV prevention and response is vast. With advancements in natural language processing and understanding, future chatbots could be equipped to handle crises, provide immediate guidance and support to distressed individuals, and direct the referral pathway and service mapping. The integration of the GMV IMS and AI could also collect anonymized data about user interactions, providing valuable insights for NGOs and policymakers about the prevalence and nature of GBV in different contexts. I also think Chatbots and AI integration in online platforms can help address risks of extortion and online harassment or at least reduce that.

The Imperative of Community Involvement

In the fight against GBV, community involvement is paramount. AI chatbots, while a promising tool, should be integrated into a broader strategy that includes community engagement and participation. Communities play a crucial role in shaping norms and attitudes towards GBV, and their involvement can help ensure that interventions are culturally sensitive and contextually appropriate.

Community members can provide valuable insights into the specific needs and circumstances of GBV survivors, which can inform the design and implementation of AI chatbots. By fostering a sense of ownership and involvement, we can enhance the effectiveness of these tools and ensure they truly serve the community\’s needs.

Ethical Considerations: Navigating the New Frontier

As we embrace the potential of AI chatbots in GBV prevention and response, we must navigate the ethical challenges that arise. Ensuring the privacy and security of sensitive user data is the top priority. Survivors are often in vulnerable situations, and any breach of their privacy could have serious consequences.

In this context, a survivor-centered approach is paramount. This means prioritizing the survivor\’s rights, needs, and wishes, ensuring their safety, and providing access to appropriate care and support. AI chatbots must be designed and programmed always to respect these principles.

We must also be mindful of the risk of re-traumatization. Interacting with an AI chatbot about one\’s experiences with GBV can be a distressing experience, and it\’s crucial to ensure that these interactions are handled with the utmost sensitivity.

Lastly, we must be aware of the potential for misunderstandings or miscommunications. AI chatbots, while increasingly sophisticated, are not infallible, and communication errors could lead to harm. As we move forward, these ethical considerations and the commitment to a survivor-centered approach must guide our development and use of AI chatbots in GBV prevention and response.

A Tool, Not a Replacement

Using AI and AI Chatbots could help us deliver better services and play a key role in preventing and responding to GBV, but it\’s important to remember that they are a tool, not a replacement for human support services. They can complement existing services by providing additional support and resources but cannot replace human service providers\’ empathy, understanding, and nuanced response.

AI chatbots are emerging as a promising tool in the fight against GBV. But like any tool, they need to be used responsibly and ethically. With careful development and thoughtful implementation, they can provide valuable support to survivors of GBV and contribute significantly to prevention efforts.

So, let\’s embrace this technology, not as a solution or replacement, but as a powerful ally in our ongoing effort to combat GBV and create a safer, more equitable world.

The Value of Diversity

Diversity in leadership is more than just a buzzword—it is a strategic advantage. Various perspectives can lead to improved decision-making, increased innovation, and a more inclusive organizational culture. When we talk about diversity, we are not just talking about gender. We are talking about diverse experiences, skills, and perspectives that can enrich our understanding and approach to our work.

In the context of donor organizations, women in leadership roles can contribute significantly to the diversity of thought. They bring their unique experiences and perspectives to the decision-making process, which can lead to more comprehensive and effective strategies for funding NGOs.

Diversity extends beyond just strategic advantages. It is also about fostering an organizational culture that values inclusivity and equity. In a diverse leadership team, every decision is the result of a multitude of perspectives coming together. This can lead to developing more inclusive policies and guidelines, ensuring a fair and equitable distribution of funds.

Women\’s Leadership Style

When discussing leadership styles, it is important to remember that they can vary from person to person, regardless of gender. However, research has shown that women leaders often exhibit certain characteristics that can be particularly beneficial in the context of donor organizations.

Women leaders are often noted for their ability to build relationships and foster collaboration. In the context of donor organizations, this can translate into stronger partnerships with NGOs, leading to more effective and impactful funding initiatives.

Additionally, women leaders often excel in empathy and emotional intelligence. This can be particularly valuable when making funding decisions, as it allows for a deeper understanding of the needs and challenges faced by NGOs and the communities they serve.

Women leaders also tend to be highly effective communicators. They are often skilled at articulating their vision and inspiring others to join them. This can mean more effective communication with NGOs, stakeholders, and the public for donor organizations, leading to increased support and engagement.

Furthermore, women leaders often demonstrate a commitment to mentorship and talent development. This can help donor organizations cultivate a pipeline of future leaders, ensuring the organization\’s continued success and impact.

Impact on Donor Engagement

Women leaders often excel in building relationships and fostering collaboration, leading to stronger partnerships with NGOs. This can result in more effective and impactful funding initiatives, as these partnerships allow for a deeper understanding of the needs and challenges faced by NGOs and their communities.

Furthermore, regarding state authorities, women leaders are just as effective. They are great communicators and relationship builders, which can lead to better coordination and cooperation between donor organizations and state authorities. This means more aligned funding strategies and more effective support for NGOs and their communities.

But it does not stop there. Women leaders can play a crucial role in engaging with other donors. Their unique perspectives can help to highlight the importance of funding NGOs that focus on issues often disproportionately affecting women, such as gender equality, education, and healthcare. This can lead to increased support for these NGOs from other donors.

Reducing Bias in Decision-Making and Policies

Promoting more women into leadership roles within donor organizations is not just about representation—it is a significant step toward reducing decision-making and policy development bias. Women leaders, with their unique experiences and perspectives, can challenge the status quo and bring fresh insights that can help to reduce gender biases that may exist within the organization.

This shift can have a profound impact on the organization\’s operations. With more women in leadership roles, the organization can benefit from a broader range of perspectives in decision-making processes. This diversity of thought can lead to more balanced and inclusive decisions, which better reflect the diverse needs and challenges of the NGOs and communities that the organization serves.

More women in leadership roles can also influence policy development within the organization. It can create more equitable and inclusive policies, ensuring all voices are heard and considered in the organization\’s operations. This can ultimately lead to more effective and impactful funding strategies, benefiting NGOs and their communities.

Setting an Example for NGOs and Other Organizations

Donor organizations play a significant role in shaping the nonprofit sector. They set the tone for how NGOs operate, what issues are prioritized, and how funds are allocated. As such, the decisions made within donor organizations can have far-reaching impacts.

By promoting more women into leadership roles, donor organizations can set a powerful example for NGOs and other organizations in the sector. It sends a clear message about the value of gender diversity and the importance of women\’s perspectives in decision-making processes.

Moreover, it can inspire NGOs and other organizations to follow suit. Seeing women in leadership roles within donor organizations can motivate NGOs to promote more women into leadership positions. This can lead to a ripple effect, promoting gender diversity across the entire sector.

However, it is not just about setting an example. It is also about creating a more equitable and inclusive sector. By promoting more women into leadership roles, donor organizations can ensure that the needs and perspectives of all community members are taken into account in decision-making processes. This can lead to more inclusive and effective interventions, ultimately benefiting the communities that NGOs serve.

The nonprofit sector is a world of change and progress; it is time for our leadership to reflect that. It is not just about having more women leaders but about what these leaders can bring.

The psychological toll of working in conflict zones can be significant because they may experience symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. Exposure to violence, the pressure to deliver aid under challenging conditions, and the impact of witnessing suffering and trauma can all contribute to mental health challenges. Furthermore, they may face a constant cycle of crisis and recovery, which can add to their stress levels. Providing adequate mental health support to address these mental health challenges is essential. This support can include access to counselling, debriefing sessions, and other forms of psychological support. NGOs should prioritize mental health support and provide aid workers with the necessary resources to address their challenges. Aid workers need access to the support they need before, during and after their missions.

Encouraging open communication about mental health issues is another important aspect of promoting a supportive organizational culture. This includes creating a safe and non-judgmental space to discuss mental health challenges and seek help when needed. Creating a culture of openness and support can reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues and encourage aid workers to seek the help they need.
NGOs can also support their staff by providing training and resources to help them cope with the stress and trauma of their work. This can include training in stress management, resilience-building, and other coping mechanisms that staff and volunteers can use to manage their challenges. Unfortunately, mental health issues are often stigmatized and taboo in the humanitarian sector. Greater recognition of mental health issues is needed to reduce stigma and encourage aid workers to seek the help they need.

Self-care is essential for staff and volunteers working in conflict zones and remote areas, and practising self-care can help them cope with the challenges of working in conflict zones and maintain their mental health and well-being. This can include practices such as mindfulness, exercise, and regular breaks. Moreover, it is important to provide training on self-care techniques to help aid workers in building resilience and managing stress.

Donors can also be important in supporting aid workers\’ mental health and well-being. Greater investment in mental health support for aid workers can help to reduce the risk of mental health challenges and to promote the well-being of aid workers. Donors can also support efforts to raise awareness of mental health issues in the humanitarian sector and to reduce stigma. Donors can also support research on the best practices for mental health support in the humanitarian sector.

We all can take steps to manage our own mental health and well-being while working in conflict zones. In my experience working in conflict zones and hard-to-reach areas, I found that establishing a routine, setting realistic goals, and prioritizing self-care were crucial to managing my mental health and well-being.
Establishing a routine gave me a sense of structure and stability, which helped me maintain control during times of uncertainty. Setting realistic goals allowed me to focus on what I could achieve at the moment rather than becoming overwhelmed by the enormity of the task. Prioritizing self-care, whether through exercise, meditation or simply taking a recharge, helped me manage stress and maintain a positive outlook. It is important to note that while these strategies can be effective, they are not a substitute for adequate mental health support.

As aid workers, we know that working in conflict zones is a challenging yet rewarding experience. However, the psychological toll of this work can be significant.
We need to create a culture of openness and support to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues and encourage aid workers to seek the help they need.
It is time for NGOs, aid workers, and donors to unite to prioritize mental health support for those who risk their lives to provide life-saving assistance to vulnerable communities affected by conflict.

The origins of the cycle of violence theory can be traced back to the 1970s, one of the most influential studies being that of Lenore Walker, who developed the concept of the cycle of violence. This suggests that people who have been abused, particularly in childhood, are more likely to abuse themselves. This idea is often used to explain the prevalence of gender-based violence and why it can be difficult for people to break free from abuse in relationships. Walker\’s study found that abused women often experienced repeated escalating tension, explosive violence, and reconciliation (Walker, 1979). Other researchers have highlighted the role of patriarchy and gender inequality in perpetuating cycles of abuse. In many African societies, women and girls are marginalized and disempowered, leaving them vulnerable to abuse. This can lead to a cycle of abuse in which women who have experienced violence use violence to assert their power and control. However, recent research suggests that the cycle of abuse is not as simple as once thought.

One of the most prominent African scholars to address this issue is South African psychologist Pumla Gobodo-Madikizela. In her work, she argues that there is a strong link between experiencing trauma and becoming a perpetrator of violence (Gobodo-Madikizela, 2009). This is because trauma can result in a loss of empathy and an inability to recognize the impact of one\’s actions on others. She also notes that perpetrators of violence often have a history of being abused themselves, suggesting that a cycle of abuse needs to be broken. According to a 2019 meta-analysis, while there is a correlation between being abused and becoming an abuser, the relationship is not as strong as previously believed (Assink, 2019). Other studies have found that individuals who have been abused are no more likely to become abusers than those who have not experienced abuse (Kaufman & Zigler, 1987). These findings suggest that the cycle of violence may not be a reliable explanation for why gender-based violence occurs.

Since Walker\’s study, the cycle of violence theory has been widely accepted and applied to many types of abuse, including child and sexual violence. However, the concept has been criticized for being overly simplistic and ignoring the complex social, cultural, and psychological factors contributing to gender-based violence. For example, research has found that individuals exposed to violence in their communities or who have experienced other forms of trauma are more likely to become abusers than those who have not (Holt, Buckley, & Whelan, 2008).

Despite criticism of the cycle of violence theory, it remains a popular explanation for why gender-based violence occurs. This can have negative consequences for victims of violence, who may feel stigmatized and responsible for their experiences. In addition, the theory of the cycle of violence can reinforce harmful gender stereotypes and perpetuate the notion that violence is inherent in particular communities or cultures. Similarly, Nigerian sociologist Jacob Olupona has studied the relationship between trauma and violence in African societies. He argues that the trauma of colonialism and slavery has contributed to a culture of violence in Africa, as traumatized people often seek to regain power and agency through violence. Olupona notes that traditional African cultures historically had mechanisms for conflict resolution and violence prevention, but these mechanisms have been weakened by colonialism and modernization (Olupona, 2004).

Preventing abuse requires a holistic approach considering the historical, cultural and structural factors contributing to violence. This means addressing issues such as gender inequality, trauma and the erosion of traditional conflict resolution mechanisms. It also means providing support and resources to abuse victims and addressing the root causes of violence. Whether victims of abuse become perpetrators themselves is a complex and differentiated question that needs to be carefully considered. Scholars have made significant contributions to this field, highlighting the role of trauma, patriarchy, and cultural factors in perpetuating cycles of violence. By taking a holistic approach to addressing abuse in African communities, we can work to break these cycles and create safer and more equal societies for all.

References

Assink, M., van der Put, C. E., Meeuwsen, M. W., de Jong, N. M., Oort, F. J., Stams, G. J. J., & Hoeve, M. (2019). Risk factors for child sexual abuse victimization: A meta-analytic review. Psychological bulletin, 145(5), 459.

Gobodo-Madikizela, P., & Van der Merwe, C. N. (Eds.). (2009). Memory, narrative and forgiveness: Perspectives on the unfinished journeys of the past. Cambridge Scholars Publishing.

Holt, S., Buckley, H., & Whelan, S. (2008). The impact of exposure to domestic violence on children and young people: A review of the literature. Child abuse & neglect, 32(8), 797–810.

Kaufman, J., & Zigler, E. (1987). Do abused children become abusive parents?. American journal of orthopsychiatry, 57(2), 186-192.

Olupona, J. K. (Ed.). (2004). Beyond primitivism: indigenous religious traditions and modernity. Psychology Press.

Walker, L. E. (1979). Battered women: A psychosociological study of domestic violence.

Unfortunately, even young children exhibit acts of gender inequality in their behaviours and utterances in schools, playgrounds and places of worship. I always asked myself, \”who told the three years old boy he is stronger than his elder sister because he is a male\”? What makes that young teenager believe he is the sole heir to the family inheritance? What can we say about the Darwinism origin of species and natural selection? Is this also in place? Can we also put into perspective Bandura’s social learning principles? All of these put the burning concerns about the default settings of patriarchy over matriarchy. In my quest for specific answers, I discovered it all started in the “family”, right in the home.

Our parents unintentionally taught us that “males are superior to females” by their actions and words. Gender inequality has been practiced and passed down from one generation to the other. Ashley Montagu, a great British anthropologist, said, “the family is the basis of the society, as the family is, so is the society”. The family makes up society.

It begins from birth. In Nigeria, parents celebrate a male child\’s birth more than a female child. Parents provide more tender care to the male child and go as far as telling the female siblings that the male child is the bearer of the family name and future. The household chore is seen as the female’s domain, so the girl is given more work in the house because she is told that “she is a home keeper and will grow up to be a housewife”. The girl child is already conditioned for marriage right from childhood. Adichie wrote, “we condition girls to aspire to marriage, but we don’t condition boys to aspire to marriage, so there is already a terrible imbalance at the start”. Girls are told and conditioned to compromise everything for their male partners. Then the males are prioritized in education. The boys go to school while the girls help their mothers at home, farm or market. The boys are encouraged to build interest in politics and take up leadership roles, while the girls are told they are followers and cannot lead. Even in nursery and primary schools, the class/house captains are primarily boys. From a tender age, the boys have the freedom to go anywhere at any time, while the females are not allowed to leave the house at any time. A male folk is told to protect his sisters even though he is the youngest of them all. Parents share information and consult with the male children in making decisions in the family but neglect the females. The action of parents naturally communicates the message of patriarchy to the children.

 Unintentional stereotyping of one gender through words is very common in Nigeria and is seen as casual, but it makes an everlasting impression in the hearts of the boys and girls. Statements like “why are you crying like a girl”? Quite a pathetic way of describing actions as weak and aligning such actions to the feminine gender, describing the female gender as an emotional piece that needs succour. “Why are you behaving like a girl”? Questioning the nature of one’s behavior as a strategy to make one wake up from a weak feminine associated state. “Don’t you know you are a man? You are worthless for letting a girl come top of the class”, as though academic prowess is meant for men alone. These statements begin to shape the thought pattern and behavior of the male child towards dominance and the females towards weakness. It all begins right from the Home.

 The human system is not devoid of learning, especially in children at this stage of development. Anything the parents do influences the children either consciously or unconsciously. The human mind is adroit and takes cognizance of everything placed on it. Parents must do more if we need to take this challenge to bring equality to our society. Most importantly, start by showing equal love to your children, eliminating any form of gender roles in the home, and then giving them an equal opportunity as they all have equal rights. Parents should discourage patriarchy and promote gender equality in the best possible ways.

Being a humanitarian worker was never my dream, even though I had an idea about the humanitarian field while growing up because my father was the country representative for one of the faith-based international medical non-governmental organizations in Northeast Nigeria. I followed him occasionally to the field because there was no conflict at the time and security risks were minimal. I felt this joy and sense of purpose anytime I was in the field with my father. I never knew I would one day be a humanitarian worker.

When the conflict began in Northeast Nigeria and the need for humanitarian support was enormous, I offered myself to volunteer with the government help later, I volunteered with a national non-governmental organization, then I joined the international non-governmental organizations (INGOs), and here I am today as a sector manager. I have experience working in the deep field face to face with near-death situations and amazing moments working with our beneficiaries. I love being a humanitarian worker. It comes with a sense of fulfilment knowing someone out there will smile or receive support because of what I do. When I wake up every day and remember my contribution makes the world a better place, it keeps me going.

2. Tell us why you choose to identify as a feminist and GBV activist

I grew up in a patriarchal society that empowers the males but denies the females the same privilege on the bases of gender. Structural inequalities and discrimination have confined the females within this region and limited their access to opportunities and contributions to society. I grew up seeing GBV perceived as normal and accepted as part of life. This has been passed down from generation to generation.

My mindset began to change when I witnessed situations where my female classmates in high school were denied the opportunity to further their education, my coursemate in the university dropped out of school because she was raped, and colleagues with great visions and dreams were denied opportunities because of gender norms. I kept asking why and what could be done to change the narrative.

As I kept asking questions and seeking answers, I read books on marginalization and gender inequality. I met certain individuals and organizations that helped me gain understanding, and the answers to my questions began to unfold. Today, I boldly say I am a feminist. I fight inequality and GBV with every fibre in me and advocate for equity and Justice. We are not there yet, but I will keep doing what I can do in my own little way until we have an equal and equitable world.

3. What are the challenges of being a feminist and GBV activist?

As a feminist and GBV activist, you face many challenges everywhere, and sometimes you ask yourself, is it worth it? (Oh yes, it is worth it). One of the major challenges is the lack of understanding of feminism in Nigeria. Most people think feminism is hatred for men and fighting over dominance, but no, we are just asking for equal rights and opportunities. The males should not be prioritized over the females. All should be given equal chances and fully supported. Feminists are openly criticized and attacked because of the misunderstanding of feminism. Hence, most feminists do not declare or support feminism publicly. Another challenge is the rigid and defensive mindset because of the conflicting cultural and religious beliefs. Nigeria is deeply rooted in cultural norms which shape the mindset of the people; hence very difficult to change the mindset of patriarchy.  

4. What is the current humanitarian situation in Nigeria?

The humanitarian situation in Nigeria is a state of protection crisis with protracted displacement. Millions of people are displaced due to prolonged armed conflict within Northeast Nigeria. The 2022 humanitarian response plan report confirms that as of January 2022, 8.5 million people need humanitarian aid in Northeast Nigeria. Also, there is an influx of Cameroonian refugees into Nigeria because of the displacement caused by the Anglophone crisis in Cameroon\’s English-speaking Northwest and Southwest regions. UNHCR confirms 72,838 registered Cameroonian refugees in Nigeria.  The humanitarian situation in Nigeria is becoming complex with the recent increase in displacement because of banditry and inter-ethnic conflict within the Northwest and North central region of Nigeria.

5. What role does the mainstream media play in covering the humanitarian crisis in Nigeria? And how do you think this is impacting the NGOs community?

I strongly believe the media plays a key role in raising awareness and drawing the attention of relevant stakeholders (such as donors) and the world to the humanitarian crises to secure the support required. Quality news coverage can shape crises\’ responses, most commonly by stimulating further research and/or advocacy and informing organizational or operational priorities. Currently, the media simply lacks an in-depth analysis of the reality of the current crisis in Nigeria.

Impact on NGO Community

The NGO community has been negatively affected by the poor performance of mainstream media.

1. The NGO community has experienced a decrease in donor interest and funding pool because the crisis in Nigeria seems to be a ‘’forgotten crisis”. The media is not providing information that would gain the attention of the donors and see the need to mobilize resources for response. 
2. The negative media report in the country towards the NGOs is also projecting a significant mistrust and reducing the level of acceptance of humanitarian actors/activities in the eyes of the state authorities and beneficiaries.

There is a need for the media outlets to understand the processes of humanitarian intervention and its implications when reporting negative news on humanitarian actors/activities.

6. What are your thoughts on funding protection programs in Nigeria? How does it impact the humanitarian intervention?

While Nigeria\’s crisis is described as a protection crisis, protection programs are underfunded and the least prioritized. Resources are least allocated to address protection risks.

The impact is glaring on the humanitarian intervention because the threats of harm are increasing and the established systems in place to protect the population are broken and unfunctional. Despite all efforts by the humanitarians, the population keeps facing increased protection risks and psychosocial distress because the right protection mechanism is not in place. Protection programs are as important as health and food interventions. Until the capacity of the population and communities are strengthened to establish protection mechanisms and adequately respond to protection risks, the humanitarian intervention will not be as much effective as it should.

I will encourage donors to prioritize protection programs and adequately provide funding alongside other programs using an integrated approach.  

7. What are the main challenges facing women and girls in northeast Nigeria? How do you think NGOs can support the woman and girls there?

Women and girls in Nigeria face many challenges exacerbated by the crisis and COVID 19 pandemic. Most of the challenges are related to social norms. Some of these challenges include:

1. Women and girls are disfavored when it comes to access to resources, inheritance and opportunities within the family and community
2. Women and girls are disfavored regarding access to education and livelihood opportunities. The males are given priority.
3. Women and girls are more vulnerable to GBV, sexual exploitation and abuse, and sex for survival.
4. Women and girls are affected more by reproductive health issues and lack of body autonomy. Their spouse or male significant other decides on the female\’s reproductive health and body.
5. Women and girls are not supported to take up leadership roles in society, even in schools.
6. Women and girls have limited knowledge on how to claim their rights and her encouraged by society to be submissive and claim no rights.

NGOs can support women and girls through:

1. Women empowerment interventions
2. Gender transformative programs
3. Girl child education interventions
4. Gender mainstreaming in all interventions
5. Increased gender equality campaigns
6. High-level advocacy and policy change strategy

8. How should the protection sector be integrated with Nigeria\’s development approach and durable solutions?

It is critical that the protection sector is integrated into the Development and durable solutions approach to ensure that elements of protection are central in the approach. This would ensure that durable solutions do not cause any harm and that everyone in the population benefits while being protected. Integration could be done through:

1. Providing technical support to the state and all stakeholders involved in using the protection lens while developing strategies and planning durable solutions.
2. Coordinates and ensures protection mainstreaming in all binding national and state policies that will guide the approach to achieving durable solutions.
3. A monitoring system is in place to ensure protection minimum standards are followed in addressing the needs of the affected population.

9. Who is your role model in the humanitarian field?

In my perspective, a role model is someone who has attained excellence in a certain aspect of their life and is looked to by others as an example to be imitated. In the humanitarian field, currently, five people I consider my role models have attained excellence in their uniqueness and are worthy of emulation. They have carved a path worthy of following. I study them carefully and learn and imitate them. They are: Ali Al Mokdad, Eric Okoth, Rasmus Nielsen, Adonis SamFana and Sophia Karimi

10. Quote

“Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much”. Helen Keller

“Together for Just World”.