Kogi Livestock Project Sets Zero Tolerance Rules on Gender-Based Violence

The Kogi State Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project has issued a strict warning to contractors and service providers against gender-based violence, sexual exploitation and abuse, and sexual harassment.

The warning was delivered on Sunday in Lokoja by the State Project Coordinator, Abdulkabir Otaru, during a stakeholder sensitisation programme for contractors and service providers under the project.

Otaru said the engagement was mandatory and aimed at ensuring ethical conduct and safe project implementation across livestock value chain clusters in the state.

He stated that the project operates a zero-tolerance policy and would not condone any form of abuse, harassment or exploitation linked to its activities.

Otaru said contractors and service providers serve as the project’s representatives within communities and must uphold professional behaviour that protects the safety and dignity of residents.

He said all workers are required to sign the project’s Code of Conduct, report violations promptly, and treat community members with respect, regardless of gender, age or status.

The coordinator added that project activities must not create fear, worsen community tensions, marginalise vulnerable groups or undermine trust.

He disclosed that confidential grievance redress mechanisms have been put in place to allow safe reporting and handling of GBV, SEA and SH complaints.

At the programme, the Executive Director of RECEF, Idris Muraina, spoke on gender mainstreaming in livestock value chains, while Barrister Lilian Okolo addressed sexual and gender-based violence case management.

Other speakers urged strict compliance with safeguarding guidelines and inclusive practices.

The event also featured a panel discussion, the unveiling of the Kogi L-PRES GBV and PSEAH handbook, and the signing of Code of Conduct attestations by contractors.