A non-governmental organisation (NGO), Devatop Centre for Africa Development, has empowered 21 survivors of abuse, exploitation, and other forms of violence through its Survivors Empowerment Programme.
Development Diaries reports that Devatop is an NGO working across Nigeria on human rights education, anti-human trafficking advocacy, gender-based violence prevention and community empowerment.
The empowerment event, which was aimed at supporting healing, dignity and economic independence, provided beneficiaries with tools and support tailored to their individual needs and aspirations.
According to the Executive Director of Devatop, Joseph Osuigwe, the initiative reflects the organisation’s commitment to ensuring survivors receive comprehensive support that goes beyond rescue.
Osuigwe, who was represented by Akpana Betiang, noted that long-term empowerment and self-reliance are central to Devatop’s intervention approach.
He added that the organisation would continue working with partners, communities and relevant institutions to promote safer environments where survivors can rebuild their lives and access justice.
He explained that the programme was supported by the Foreign Aid Bridge Fund, hosted and managed by Panorama Global, which has enabled Devatop to expand its reach and strengthen its response to human trafficking and gender-based violence.
According to Osuigwe, five survivors received hairdressing tools, four were supported with cooking equipment, two received beauty kits, while another two were provided with tailoring machines.
One survivor received chemicals for soap-making, and seven others benefited from educational support, bringing the total number of empowerment kits distributed to 21.
He further stated that the programme seeks to strengthen partnerships, promote collaboration and address gaps in case management to ensure survivors receive timely, dignified and survivor-centred support.
Presenting the empowerment materials to beneficiaries, Programme Officer at MeCAHT, Kababiya Kore, stressed the importance of economic empowerment and survivor-centred interventions in achieving sustainable recovery and reintegration.
The programme brought together survivors, frontline responders and community advocates, creating a platform to strengthen collaboration, survivor-centred support and long-term recovery pathways.
Participants also took part in interactive sessions on emotional wellness, personal safety, skills development and access to referral services as part of efforts to promote holistic support for survivors.
Source: NAN
Photo source: NAN
