BBYDI mobilises over 250 residents as Kwara community launches social charter to combat GBV

The Agbarere community in Ilorin has launched a Community Social Charter aimed at tackling gender-based violence (GBV), safeguarding women and girls, and promoting accountability for perpetrators of abuse.

The initiative, unveiled by the community head, Alhaji Kadir Baba Yusuf, was endorsed by traditional, religious, and civic leaders. It is the result of sustained mobilisation by the Brain Builders Youth Development Initiative (BBYDI), with support from the Ford Foundation.

Agbarere is among several communities in Kwara State where BBYDI is working to foster sustainable social transformation. The charter ensures women and girls are given protection and meaningful inclusion in community decision-making, while also establishing mechanisms to punish offenders.

At the launch event held on Saturday, September 20, more than 250 participants, including traditional rulers, religious figures, women and youth leaders, civil society representatives, and security agencies, took part in the dialogue.

Gender advocate and educationist, Mrs Funmilayo Olutimehin, delivered the keynote address on the theme Community Responsibility in Ending Gender-Based Violence. She urged communities to confront harmful practices and provide steadfast support for survivors.

In a parallel session, BBYDI’s Communications Director, Mr Sanni Alausa-Issa, highlighted the importance of male involvement in the campaign against GBV. He argued that harmful masculinities must be challenged and replaced with values rooted in empathy, respect, and accountability.

BBYDI’s Executive Director, Nurah Jimoh-Sanni, said the charter was an important step towards community-led accountability. She stressed that the goal was to empower communities to take ownership of solutions rather than wait for external intervention.

With further engagements planned across Kwara State, BBYDI pledged to continue its campaign through education, partnerships, and community mobilisation, working alongside traditional and religious leaders to build a united front against gender-based violence.