Unity Bank Boss Demands Actions Against Gender-Based Violence

• Nine percent of women aged 15-49 suffer sexual assault once in their lifetime

The Managing Director of Unity Bank Plc, Mrs Tomi Somefun says Nigeria urgently needs comprehensive policy actions to dismantle structures that encourage gender-based violence in line with the Sustainable Development Goal 5.

Mrs Somefun said going by a recent study by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Nigeria, it is unfortunate that “Nine (9) percent of women aged 15 to 49 had suffered sexual assault at least once in their lifetime and 31 percent had experienced physical violence”.

She canvassed the position at the Ebony Life Cinema, the venue of the film screening in Lagos, where Unity Bank supported the BECKMA movie premiere by ARDA Development Commuications Inc. held to highlight issues of Gender-Based violence and driving positive change in society.

According to her; “Gender-based violence is not just a women’s issue, but a societal ill that demands our collective attention”, adding that; “It is high time for us to step forward and advocate for comprehensive policy actions that will dismantle the structures allowing such atrocities to persist.

“I urge policymakers to enact stringent laws against gender-based violence, ensuring swift and severe consequences for perpetrators. Our homes and various organisations must also be a catalyst for change, inspiring others to follow suit.”

She further pledged the Bank’s commitment to partnering with the movie premiere and putting the power of the brand behind BECKMA as the event brings sustainability and gender equality to the front burner.

Represented by the Group Head of Compliance, Mrs. Patricia Ahunanya, at the event, Mrs Somefun, while commending the ARDA Development Communications Inc for their initiatives to promote gender equality and empowerment in line with Sustainable Development Goal 5 (SDG5), assured that Unity Bank remains committed to sustainable initiatives.

For her, the Bank is ever ready to explore further collaborative initiatives and advocacy programmes that would enhance the elimination of gender-based violence in all parts of the country.