Plateau State Gender And Equal Opportunities Commission

28/09/2026

‎Staff of the plateau state gender and equal opportunities commission have been admonished to work as a team and build a culture where excellence is the norm.
‎The Special adviser to the Governor on gender and chairperson plateau state gender and equal opportunities commission Olivia Dazyam Esq gave the charge at the opening of a three day retreat for staff of the commission, holding at the Miango Rest Home, Bassa local government.
‎Dazyam encouraged the staff to be professional in their duties and ensure no one works in isolation.
‎The chairperson thanked the governor of Plateau, Caleb Mutfwang ESQ for the continuous support given to the commission stating that such support is what has given the commission the impetus to reach the height so far attained.
‎Olivia Dazyam said it is the role of the commission to ensure accurate data collection of the various cases reported to the commission and also ensure that complaints reported are adequate handled.
‎The retreat has as theme, strengthening the Capacity of staff of the plateau state gender commission towards impactful productivity and the actualization of the agenda of inclusion of the government of Caleb Mutfwang ESQ.
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‎The resource person, Dr. Gad Shamaki spoke on how the commission came to be, Gender Based Violence, Violence Against Women and Girls and Effective Communication

‎PLASGOEC MEDIA

28/09/2026

PLATEAU STATE AIDS CONTROL AGENCY PAYS COURTESY VISIT TO THE PLATEAU STATE GENDER AND EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES COMMISSION ADVOCATES STRONGER PARTNERSHIP TO REDUCE STIGMA

The Plateau State Gender and Equal Opportunities Commission on Friday, 25th September 2026, received representatives of the Plateau State AIDS Control Agency (PLACA) on a courtesy visit.

The visit was aimed at exploring areas of collaboration and strengthening the working relationship between the two institutions.

Speaking during the visit, the Acting Chairperson of the Commission, Olivia Dazyam, Esq., explained that the Plateau State Government is committed to supporting people living with HIV/AIDS, particularly women across the state.

The Acting Chairperson emphasized the importance of partnering with PLACA, noting that both institutions address issues relating to HIV/AIDS and the well-being of affected persons. She called for stronger collaboration between the two institutions, stating that such partnership would provide an opportunity for PLACA to refer specific HIV/AIDS-related cases to the Commission for appropriate attention.

In her remarks, Esther Turaki the Executive Director of the organization explained that the mandate of PLACA is to coordinate the multisectoral response to HIV/AIDS in the state. She noted that the agency explores opportunities to address HIV-related cases, create awareness about the disease, reduce stigma against people living with HIV/AIDS, and empower them to contribute meaningfully to society.

She further stated that PLACA works with various organizations and support groups, including the Association of Women Living with HIV/AIDS, to provide support and improve the well-being of people affected by the disease.

The visit ended on a cordial note, with both institutions expressing their commitment to strengthening collaboration in addressing HIV/AIDS-related issues in Plateau State.

PLASGEOC MEDIA.

16/09/2026

GENDER EQUALITY IS A NATIONAL INTEREST.— Olivia Dazyam Calls for Action on Girl-Child Education

The Chairperson of the Plateau State Gender and Equal Opportunities Commision and Special Adviser to His Excellency On Gender, Olivia Dazyam Esq., has called for stronger collective action to promote gender equality, inclusive governance and sustainable development in Nigeria.

Dazyam made the call while delivering a presentation titled “ Gender, Governance, Political Representation and Legal Frameworks” at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru.

She encouraged both men and women to speak up and report gender-related concerns in their various organisations, stressing that gender equality is a shared responsibility. She also called for greater involvement of fathers in family life, noting that responsible parenting is essential to raising healthy and responsible future generations.

A major concern raised during the presentation was the education and protection of the girl child. Dazyam expressed concern that in some parts of Northern Nigeria, girls are becoming mothers as early as 13 years of age, often at a stage when they should still be in school. She stressed that educating and protecting the girl child is an investment in the future, because the girl of today will become a mother and a key influence on the next generation.

She further advocated greater opportunities for women to participate meaningfully in political and public decision-making, while calling on government, families, political institutions, traditional and religious leaders, civil society and citizens to take practical steps towards achieving equality.

She concluded with a powerful message:

*“Gender equality is therefore not a special interest; gender equality is a national interest."*

The presentation reinforced the Commission’s commitment to equal opportunities, girl-child education, inclusive governance, protection and sustainable development in Plateau State and Nigeria.

*PLASGEOC MEDIA*

15/09/2026

GENDER COMMISSION ASSURES COLLABORATION WITH WOMEN GROUP

The Chairperson Plateau State Gender and Equal Opportunities Commission, Olivia Dazyam ESQ has assured that the commission will not relent in collaborating with women groups whose mandate is to promote inclusion and equality.
The chairperson was speaking when she received members of
Women in Politics Initiative (WIPI), Plateau State, led by its President and Convener, Hajara Ibinan, alongside members of the movement on a courtesy visit to the Commission.
Dazyam encouraged the women to remain committed to their cause despite the seemingly slow pace of incision, but should vigorously advocate for the protection of the girl child by encouraging girls to be educated.
She encouraged the women to be part of the political structure at their local level so they can be carried along in the next political dispensation.

In her remarks, Hajara Ibinan said WIPI was founded in 2022 and now has over eight to nine thousand members across Plateau State. She noted that women have always supported governance but are rarely seen at the decision-making table, describing women as credible, accountable, and empathetic leaders, and cited Barr Olivia, a three-time Commissioner as proof.
She listed challenges women face in politics to include character attacks, discrimination based on marital status, the high cost of politics, and the “pull-her-down syndrome” adding that political roles given to women are often just a handful of token positions.

She appealed for more political appointment for women in the next political dispensation adding that women make up the majority of voters but hardly benefit after the process is over.

PLASGEOC MEDIA

13/09/2026

04/09/2026

The Chairperson Plateau State Gender and Equal Opportunities Commission Olivia Dazyam ESQ has said that some matters of violence are too serious to be hidden behind the walls of a family. The chairperson was speaking at the TEKAN-ECWA Women fellowship maiden convention held at Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria LCCN CATHEDRAL, Nyanya, Abuja.
She commended the women fellowship for organizing the convention and picking a timely topic.Dazyam enumerated the types of violence to include physical, sexual and emotional violence.
The chairperson said women must understand that once violence starts in a home, there is a need to speak out and seek professional help.
She said the theme of the convention resonates with the topic because women must learn to be united as women to end all forms of violence.

27/07/2026

Students of tertiary institutions have been challenged to soar higher in their educational pursuit and not fall for the false promises of traffickers and abusers.
The Special Adviser to Governor Mutfwang on Gender and Chairperson Plateau State Gender and Equal Opportunities Commission, Bar. Olivia Dazyam made the assertion while on an awareness campaign to the College of Education Gindiri.
Bar. Dazyam said the awareness has become imperative considering the increase in the involvement of students in sexual and gender based violence, trafficking, drug abuse and other vices that are not only inimical to their health, but can truncate their educational advancement.
Dazyam said students both male and female are exposed to risks when they fall prey to unscrupulous and far-fetched promises that false.
She said many students have been tricked into trafficking, early pregnancy and online sexual exploitation.
The chairperson also talked about organ harvesting, sale of ovaries and surrogacy.

16/07/2026

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Gender and Chairperson, Plateau State Gender and Equal Opportunities Commission, Bar. Olivia Dazyam has charged faith actors to begin to think about who will take over from them when they leave the stage, and what legacy they intend to leave behind.
Bar. Dazyam was speaking at the Annual Faith Actors Conference organised by Mission 21, a non governmental organization. Expou ding the topic "Empowering Young Women and Men: Identity, Purpose, Leadership, and Livelihoods" Bar Dazyam said it is only when young people know who they are and strive to understand their purpose, it will be difficult to for them to become leaders.
She said most young people do not know their identity and it is the duty of faith leaders to begin to rise upto their responsibilities and begin to bring back the young ones.

12/07/2026

*Plateau Gender Commission Chairperson Charges Church to Lead Fight Against Human Trafficking*

The Acting Chairperson of the Plateau State Gender and Equal Opportunities Commission (PLASGEOC), Barr. Olivia Dazyam, has called on churches and community-based organizations to take a leading role in combating human trafficking by strengthening family values, promoting economic empowerment, and encouraging citizens to report suspected trafficking cases.

She made the call while delivering a keynote address as the guest speaker at the Second General Meeting of the Jos Central Baptist Association of the Plateau Baptist Conference, Nigerian Baptist Convention. The meeting was themed "Combating the Scourge of Human Trafficking: The Role of the Church and Community-Based Organizations."

In her opening remarks, Barr. Dazyam expressed gratitude to the church for the invitation, describing it as a privilege to once again engage with faith-based leaders on an issue that threatens the well-being of families and communities.

She began by explaining the meaning of the conference theme, noting that the word scourge refers to a severe affliction or something that causes great suffering, hardship, or widespread problems.

"We have a scourge in our hands," she said, adding that poverty remains a scourge in many communities, while gender-based violence continues to inflict pain on families and society.

Drawing from Proverbs 14:26, she emphasized that the fear of God is the foundation of secure and stable families. She further referenced Ecclesiastes 12:13, urging Christians to "fear God and keep His commandments," stressing that obedience to God remains the surest guide for responsible parenting and community living.

Speaking on the growing menace of human trafficking, the Commission's Chairperson described the abandonment of parental responsibilities as both a crime and a sin. She lamented that while trafficking previously targeted mostly children, recent trends indicate that widows are also being trafficked outside Plateau State in search of false promises of better opportunities.

Barr. Dazyam urged members of the Church not to remain silent whenever they suspect trafficking or other forms of abuse.

"When you see something, say something," she charged, explaining that although government agencies are working tirelessly to address the problem, citizens also have a critical role to play.

"There is only so much government can do. Government cannot do everything. Every one of us must rise to our responsibilities," she said.

She warned that parents and guardians who neglect their responsibilities or engage in activities that expose vulnerable persons to trafficking would face the full weight of the law.

"When we apprehend offenders, we ensure they are arrested, arraigned, and prosecuted. We have already secured convictions against perpetrators," she stated.

Quoting 1 Timothy 5:8, Barr. Dazyam reminded parents and guardians of their biblical responsibility to provide for and protect members of their households. She also challenged families to overcome bitterness, hatred, and unresolved conflicts, noting that peaceful homes are less vulnerable to exploitation and trafficking.

In a candid moment, she remarked that many Plateau women endure unhealthy marriages for the sake of their families, using the resilience of the eagle as an illustration of perseverance while encouraging families to pursue wisdom, healing, and mutual responsibility.

Concluding her address, Barr. Dazyam appealed to churches to move beyond preaching by creating practical opportunities for economic empowerment through skills acquisition and vocational programmes for members.

She stressed that equipping vulnerable persons with sustainable livelihoods would reduce their susceptibility to trafficking and other forms of exploitation.

Reiterating the message of 1 Timothy 5:8, she urged the church to continue strengthening families, promoting responsible parenting, and partnering with government in safeguarding the dignity and future of every member of society.

The meeting brought together ministers of the Gospel, church leaders, and members of the Jos Central Baptist Association, who reaffirmed their commitment to supporting efforts aimed at ending human trafficking and protecting vulnerable persons across Plateau State.

07/07/2026

*PLATEAU STATE GENDER COMMISSION TRIANS RELIGIOUS COUNSELLORS ON MEDIATION AND GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE RESPONSE*

The Plateau State Gender and Equal Opportunities Commission (PLASGEOC) has organized a one-day capacity-building training for religious counselors aimed at strengthening their knowledge and skills in mediation, counseling, and the prevention and response to Gender-Based Violence (GBV).

The training, themed “Strengthening the Capacity of Religious Counselors in Mediation and Gender-Based Violence Prevention and Response,” brought together religious counselors, faith-based leaders, and stakeholders to deepen their understanding of emerging social challenges and equip them with practical tools for effective intervention.

The Director of Administration, Mrs. Grace Pam Chuwang, in her welcome remark, encouraged participants to approach the training with an open mind and a willingness to learn, stressing the importance of continuous capacity development for those entrusted with counselling and supporting vulnerable individuals.

Delivering the keynote address, the Chairperson of the Plateau State Gender and Equal Opportunities Commission and Special Adviser to the Governor on Gender Matters, Barr. Olivia Dazyam explained that the training was organized in recognition of the critical role religious institutions play in addressing family and societal challenges.

According to her, religious organizations remain the closest support system for many individuals and families experiencing crises, making it necessary for faith-based institutions to establish functional counselling units staffed by trained professionals.

Barr. Dazyam noted that while spiritual leaders play a vital role in guiding their congregations, not every religious leader is professionally trained to handle complex counselling issues involving couples, children, and young people.

She highlighted some of the disturbing cases encountered by the Commission, ranging from family disputes and divorce to parental neglect, prostitution, and health-related challenges that require professional intervention and guidance.

The Chairperson called on religious organizations to work collectively in addressing these challenges and emphasized the need for compassion, responsibility, and adherence to biblical values, citing 1 Timothy 5:8 as a reminder of the importance of caring for one’s family and community.

She expressed hope that participants would return to their respective organizations better equipped to establish effective counselling structures and make recommendations that would strengthen support systems within their faith communities.

The technical sessions had Dr. Gad Shamaki, who delivered a presentation on the Basic Concepts of Gender.
Hajiya Lantana Bako, Coordinator Women Peace and Protection Initiatives, spoke on Implications of Sexual and Gender Based Violence and Barr. Kiyenpiya Mafuyei, PhD, Coordinator of the National Human Rights Commission, Plateau State, spoke on the Roles of Counsellors in Mediation.
Dr. Shamaki examined issues surrounding gender stereotypes, gender-based violence, discrimination, and the division of responsibilities within families and society. He challenged participants to rethink harmful cultural and religious stereotypes that often place disproportionate burdens on women while excluding them from decision-making processes.

The facilitator further emphasized the importance of gender sensitivity, women’s empowerment, accountability, and community awareness in preventing abuse and inequality. He urged religious leaders to avoid making judgments based on incomplete knowledge and instead seek proper understanding before intervening in sensitive cases.

“Traditional and religious leaders are the moral compass of society,” he said, encouraging participants to promote empathy, protect survivors, report cases of abuse, and discourage harmful practices within their communities.

The second session delivered by Hajiya Lantana Bako, Coordinator of Women Peace and Protection Initiative (WOPPI), spoke on the Implications of SexualGender-Based Violence.

She explained that sexual and gender-based violence affects both women and men, although women and girls remain the most vulnerable. Her presentation covered various forms of abuse, including harassment, intimidation, female ge***al mutilation, discrimination, sexual exploitation, cyberbullying, marital r**e, emotional abuse, and other harmful traditional practices.

Hajiya Bako also highlighted the growing concern over sexual abuse perpetrated by individuals in positions of authority and warned against practices that violate the dignity and rights of victims.

She identified power imbalance, discrimination, and disregard for human rights as some of the root causes of gender-based violence and called for stronger community awareness, engagement of traditional and religious leaders, and continuous training of frontline responders.

The final presentation was delivered by Barr. Kiyenpiya Mafuyei, PhD, Coordinator of the National Human Rights Commission, Plateau State, who spoke on the Roles of Counsellors in Mediation.

Barr. Mafuyei emphasized that mediation is a voluntary process built on trust, neutrality, confidentiality, and mutual respect. She explained that counsellors and mediators must remain impartial, encourage honest dialogue, and create safe environments where parties can communicate openly without fear of judgment or exposure.

She noted that effective mediation requires active listening, emotional intelligence, and the ability to facilitate constructive communication while protecting the dignity of all parties involved.

According to her, mediators must ensure that their interventions do not cause further harm or trauma, adding that while forgiveness may aid healing, it should never be confused with justice.

The training featured interactive discussions and question-and-answer sessions, during which participants shared experiences and sought clarification on practical counselling and mediation challenges within their religious communities

PLASGEOC MEDIA