The Edo State Government, in collaboration with the International Organization for Migration (IOM), has completed a four-day capacity-building workshop aimed at improving the efficiency and compassion of frontline responders at the Uromi Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) in Edo Central Senatorial District.

Held at the Lumen Christi Pastoral House, Uromi, the training brought together medical officers, counsellors, police personnel, social workers, and community-based advocates working to combat sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) across Edo State.

Building a Compassionate and Professional Response

Declaring the workshop open, Chief (Mrs.) Bisi Idaomi, Edo State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, represented by Mrs. Eseosa Onebamoi, Gender-Based Violence Desk Officer, applauded the participants for their commitment to improving survivor care and accountability.

“Your dedication to learning and improving your skills forms the foundation for a stronger, more coordinated response to gender-based violence,”
— Chief (Mrs.) Bisi Idaomi.

She urged participants to translate their new knowledge into compassionate, survivor-centred service delivery for women, children, and other vulnerable persons who rely on them during moments of crisis.

Chief Idaomi reaffirmed the Okpebholo-led administration’s commitment to protecting the rights and dignity of Edo citizens, emphasizing that government will continue to expand and empower SARC facilities across the state.

She also commended IOM for its technical and logistical support, describing the collaboration as “a reflection of the shared vision to build a safer and more equitable society for all.”

IOM Advocates for Ethics and Survivor Respect

Delivering a session on Prevention of Sexual Exploitation, Abuse, and Harassment (PSEAH), Mrs. Ayo Amen Ediae, IOM Counter-Trafficking Project Assistant and Gender Focal Person, underscored the importance of ethics and confidentiality.

“Survivors must be met with empathy and respect at every stage of the response process,”
— Mrs. Ayo Amen Ediae.

She called on participants to create safe spaces where victims of sexual and gender-based violence can heal without fear, shame, or stigma.

Comprehensive Training Modules

The workshop featured in-depth sessions on:

• The Concept and Dynamics of Gender-Based Violence

• Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law

• Child Rights Law (CRL)

• Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) Law

• Operational Framework of SARCs

• Forensic Examination and Evidence Collection

• Prosecution of SGBV Cases

Participants also received practical courtroom training on expert testimony, evidence presentation, and case documentation — equipping them to support judicial processes and ensure justice for survivors.

Participants Commend Edo Govt, IOM

Speaking on behalf of trainees, Mrs. Roseline Igbinovia expressed gratitude to the Edo State Government and IOM for organizing the programme, noting that the knowledge gained will significantly enhance their work.

“We now understand better how to document evidence, support survivors emotionally, and work with law enforcement to ensure justice is served,”
— Mrs. Roseline Igbinovia.

Conclusion

The Edo-IOM partnership represents another milestone in Edo State’s ongoing commitment to ending gender-based violence. By equipping SARC personnel with legal, forensic, and psychosocial skills, the state continues to build a system that prioritizes survivor dignity, justice, and institutional accountability.