The Community Awareness and Development Initiative (CADI), in collaboration with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), has strengthened the capacity of 87 district heads in Sokoto State to address harmful social practices and improve community health outcomes.
Participants drawn from across the state were selected to enhance their role in promoting public health awareness and combating gender-based violence (GBV).
Speaking at the training on Tuesday in Sokoto, the Chairman of CADI Board of Trustees and Sarkin Yakin Gagi, Alhaji Sani Umar-Jabbi, said the exercise targeted influential community leaders capable of driving behavioural change.
He explained that the programme focuses on dismantling social norms that hinder access to sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services and GBV support systems.
Umar-Jabbi urged the participants to take the training seriously, noting that such cultural barriers continue to limit service delivery and uptake.
He also noted that future participation in similar initiatives would depend on demonstrated commitment to community development and advocacy.
Presenting a paper, Dr Bello Kilgori identified stigma, misinformation, gender inequality, and inadequate service availability as major challenges affecting access to SRH and GBV services.
He also highlighted the influence of policy, culture, and religion in shaping attitudes toward these services.
Another facilitator, Alhaji Musa Galadanci, emphasised the critical role of traditional and religious leaders in shaping public behaviour and encouraging positive social change.
He noted that their influence within communities makes them key drivers of awareness and development.
The District Head of Kilgori and member of the Sultanate Council, Dr Jabbi Kilgori, outlined practical steps for monitoring service delivery, reporting gaps, and improving responsiveness to community needs.
He said such measures are essential for strengthening access to SRH and GBV-related services.
The UNFPA representative, Mr Benedit Essong, described traditional and religious leaders as vital partners in shaping public understanding of reproductive health and gender-based violence issues.
He reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to working with CADI and the Sokoto State Government to improve health outcomes and community wellbeing.