The second phase of Plan International’s Learn and Stay Protected project, funded by Nivea, has successfully impacted 15,991 participants, predominantly adolescent girls and young women, across eight communities in four local government areas of Adamawa State. The 24-month project, which focused on gender-based violence (GBV) prevention, life skills training, and economic empowerment, was lauded as a success at its official closeout event held at City Green Hotel, Yola.
Stakeholders and community leaders at the event commended Plan International for its transformative work, particularly in reducing cases of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) and providing sustainable livelihood opportunities for vulnerable individuals.
Transforming Lives Through Awareness and Economic Empowerment
According to Panmun Nehemiah, Information Management System/M&E Assistant for the project, the initiative provided case management support for GBV survivors, established community-based protection groups for awareness creation, and introduced a *Parenting Adolescent Life Skills Sessions* program to guide parents and caregivers on youth management and temper control.
“We also trained GBV survivors, many of whom are adolescent girls, in Income Generating Activities (IGA) to help them become self-sufficient,” Nehemiah said.
Community leaders attested to the project’s success. Abdul Aziz Adanu, a community leader, noted that the intervention drastically reduced cases of rape and sexual assault in his area by 95%.
“Before now, we had serious issues with GBV, but with this intervention, such cases have dropped significantly. Additionally, 113 adolescent girls were enrolled in vocational training, and after graduation, they received support to become self-reliant,” Adanu explained.
Similarly, Hon. Elam, a community leader from Tingno, Lamurde LGA, emphasized the project’s positive impact, especially on flood victims and survivors of GBV.
“This project boosted the morale of our people. They were trained, advised on reporting mechanisms, and equipped with materials to rebuild their lives. Today, idleness has drastically reduced in our community as more youths are engaged in meaningful activities,” he said.
A New Future for Adolescent Girls
Ijafida Joy Yohanna, a Case Worker with the project, highlighted the back-to-school campaign, which helped several girls return to school by covering tuition costs.
“There were many cases of rape and denial of resources, but through our case management support, we provided survivors with assistance. Those enrolled in vocational training have received startup kits and are now self-employed,” she stated.
With the conclusion of the *Learn and Stay Protected* project, stakeholders expressed hope that similar initiatives would continue to build on its success, ensuring the protection and empowerment of vulnerable groups in Adamawa State.