–Advocated for the Current 31% Women Representation in Taraba’s Cabinet
-Rescued 35 trafficked children and facilitated their safe return to their families
-Facilitated the construction of a primary school in Makarfi to prevent future trafficking
-Established a shelter for GBV survivors, offering counseling, legal support, and vocational training
-Top state for reporting GBV due to awareness campaigns
-Advocated for and implementing the Violence Against Persons (VAP) Law to protect women and children from violence
-Established Family Courts in parts of the state to handle family law and GBV cases
-Promoted women’s economic growth through Skill Acquisition Centres (SACs) and a new empowerment policy
-Introduced second-chance education for young girls who dropped out due to unintended pregnancies, allowing them to return to school
Since taking office in 2023, Mrs. Mary Sinjen, the Honorable Commissioner for Women Affairs and Child Development in Taraba State, has become a leading force in advocating for the rights of women and children. Her unwavering commitment has translated into tangible policies and initiatives that are changing lives, and her leadership is spearheading a wave of transformation in a region traditionally known for its patriarchal norms.
Under her leadership, significant strides have been made in advancing gender equality and protecting vulnerable populations. One of the standout achievements has been the groundbreaking appointment of women to key cabinet positions in the state. In a region where gender roles have traditionally been restrictive, Taraba now boasts that women hold 31% of the state’s cabinet positions—an impressive feat in northern Nigeria.
Breaking Barriers in Governance and Representation
According to Sinjen, women in Taraba State are no longer confined to the sidelines. Through the proactive leadership of Governor Dr. Agbu Kefas, the state has witnessed a historic moment in its political landscape, with women occupying critical roles such as the Commissioner for Finance, Education, Information, and Social Justice. This 31% representation not only showcases the governor’s commitment to gender equality but also ensures that women’s voices are heard at the highest levels of governance.
“This is a huge step towards equal representation. Women now have a voice, a presence in governance, and this has led to better representation and inclusion in decision-making processes,” she said.
A Commitment to Protecting Women and Children
Mrs. Sinjen’s tenure has been marked by a series of transformative policies aimed at protecting and empowering women and children. One of the most impactful initiatives under her leadership is the interception of 35 trafficked children, who were rescued and safely reunited with their families. This intervention is not just a success story for the affected children but also a call to action to address the root causes of trafficking.
“The village of Makarfi, from where most of the children were trafficked, had no schools. The trafficker promised education, which was a lie,” the Commissioner explains.
“We took immediate action and facilitated the construction of a primary school in the area, ensuring that future generations won’t fall victim to trafficking schemes.”
Furthermore, the Commissioner has been a staunch advocate for survivors of gender-based violence (GBV). In 2023, her office established a shelter for survivors, providing a safe haven where they can access counseling, legal support, and vocational training. Through awareness campaigns, more women are speaking out against violence, leading to a record number of cases reported in the state.
Taraba recently received an accolade for being the top state in Nigeria for reporting gender-based violence incidents. This achievement is a testament to the strength of the awareness programs and support systems established under Mrs. Sinjen’s leadership.
Pioneering Legal Reforms for Women’s Protection
A landmark achievement of her administration is the successful domestication and implementation of the Violence Against Persons (VAP) Law, which provides a legal framework for protecting women and children from violence. Additionally, Mrs. Sinjen has been instrumental in setting up family courts, which specialize in handling cases related to family law, GBV, child custody, and more. These courts, which have begun operating in parts of the state, aim to create a judicial system that is sensitive to the needs of women and children.
“The VAP Law and the establishment of family courts are essential steps forward in ensuring justice for survivors of violence,” she asserts. “These measures are part of our comprehensive approach to tackling GBV and ensuring that women and children are empowered and protected.”
Empowering Women to Build Better Futures
In addition to legal reforms and victim support, Mrs. Sinjen has championed women’s economic empowerment. As part of the broader vision for the future, she is working on a new women empowerment policy to help women start businesses, further their education, and access vocational training. This policy, along with the establishment of Skill Acquisition Centres (SACs) in all three geopolitical zones of the state, will provide women with the resources to achieve economic independence.
One of her most passionate initiatives is the second-chance education program aimed at young girls who dropped out of school, particularly due to unintended pregnancies. The program is designed to give these girls the opportunity to re-enter school and continue their education, a critical step in empowering them to secure a better future.
A Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Mrs. Sinjen is committed to continuing her efforts to build a more inclusive and just society for women and children in Taraba State. Her focus on education, empowerment, and legal protection reflects a holistic approach to women’s rights that prioritizes both immediate relief and long-term solutions.
“My vision is to create a society where women and children can live dignified lives, free from violence and discrimination,” she shares. “We will continue working to provide women with the opportunities and support they need to thrive.”
For Mrs. Sinjen, empowering women is not just about changing policies; it’s about changing mindsets. Her message to the women of Taraba, especially during this Women’s Month, is one of self-empowerment and resilience.
“To all Nigerian women, particularly the women of Taraba, I encourage you to take action in your own lives. Don’t wait for anyone to give you permission to succeed. You have the power to change your life and, in doing so, change the lives of those around you,” she urges. “Never let anyone stifle your dreams—if you believe in yourself, you can achieve anything.”
With her unwavering dedication, Mrs. Sinjen is not just a commissioner; she is a beacon of hope for the women and children of Taraba State, pushing forward policies and initiatives that lay the groundwork for a brighter, more equal future.
