The Roles of Women’s Right Advancement and Protection Alternative (WRAPA) the Fight Against Violence against Women in Nigeria

Abstract

This study aims to assess the effort of Non-Governmental Organizations in combating violence against women in Nigeria using an NGO known as Women's Right Advancement and Protection Alternative (WRAPA). The research was conducted using WRAPA officials at the head office in Abuja and those at the regional offices in Malumfashi and Katsina State as respondents. The method used in the study was the qualitative method with interview guide semi-structured interviews. A purposive sampling technique was used to identify and recruit participants. The participants were WRAPA's employees and the victims of violence against women. The age of participants ranged from 38-52 years. These participants were limited to WRAPA's employees working at the organization and the victims of violence. Theoretical frameworks applied in this study are social action theory and empowerment theory which will further explain the aspect of gender power relation and the empowerment concepts, as well as the elements of empowerment and the NGOs. The result showed that WRAPA has played a significant role as an NGO in addressing violence against women in Nigeria. Although, most of the violence against women in Nigeria is due to specific traditions and religious practices. Most women who are victims cannot report because they are economically dependent on their husbands. So, WRAPA is training most women with skills to be self-employed and educating the women on how to resist violence. On the other hand, WRAPA faces challenges in terms of culture, weak legal backing on violence against women in Nigeria, and lack of funds to build enough homes for women faced with violence. For WRAPA to successfully carry out its roles as NGO in Nigeria, there should be enough funds to assist the victims of violence, and legislation on violence against women must be strengthened and enforced.