Exploring humanitarian efforts for social change in Nigeria through the EU-UN Spotlight Initiative in Abuja

Gender-Based Violence (GBV) constitute a major challenge in Nigeria, with women and girls facing the alarming rate of violence and abuse. This situation necessitated increased humanitarian services through International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria, Stand to End Rape Initiative (STER), Nigeria Police Gender Unit, CLEEN Foundation, ActionAid Nigeria, including European Union-United Nations Spotlight Initiative, with the aim of addressing the issues of GBV and enhance social change across communities in Nigeria. To this end, this study examines the humanitarian efforts of EU-UN Spotlight Initiative in combating and fostering social change in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. The study utilized qualitative approach, incorporating data from relevant stakeholders and GBV Survivors through interview as well as secondary sources. The data was analysed thematically using content analysis and identifies recurring themes. The study is anchored on empowerment theory as its point of departure. This theory is relevant because of the initiative’s framework directed towards addressing and empowering and reintegrating GBV Survivors. Findings from the investigation reveals that the EU-UN Spotlight Initiative contributed immensely to the elimination and empowerment of Gender-Based Violence cases in Abuja through legal framework, awareness/campaign, provision of psychological support system for GBV survivors. Challenges militating against effectiveness of the initiative were also identified, this include, limited reach in rural communities, poor coordination among stakeholders, cultural stigma associated with GBV, and inadequate funding. The study recommends among others for expansion of EU-UN Spotlight Initiative to cover more rural areas, collaborate with religious and traditional rulers to reduce cultural stigma militating the fighting against GBV, and increase in finance. These measures if properly implemented will go a long way to address Gender-Based Violence issues in Abuja and Nigeria in general.