GEESI DHI facilitated a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) on Sexual Violence with 22 participants, comprising mothers and children. The session provided a safe and inclusive space to raise awareness on the risks and consequences of sexual violence, promote prevention strategies, and strengthen knowledge of available reporting and referral pathways. Participants were encouraged to support survivor-centered approaches, uphold the rights of women and children, and contribute to creating safer, more protective communities.

#GEESIDHI #CoHERE #GBVPrevention #EndSexualViolence #Protection #ChildProtection #WomenAndGirls #Safeguarding #CommunityEngagement #SurvivorCentered #HumanitarianResponse

GEESI DHI conducted a community awareness outreach and Focus Group Discussion (FGD) to strengthen Ebola prevention and preparedness. Community members were educated on Ebola symptoms, transmission, prevention measures, and the importance of promptly reporting suspected cases to health facilities. Participants actively engaged in discussions, sharing their knowledge, concerns, and beliefs while receiving accurate information to address misconceptions. The activity promoted good hygiene practices, increased awareness, and empowered community members to take proactive steps in preventing the spread of Ebola and protecting public health.

#GEESIDHI #CoHERE #EbolaAwareness #PublicHealth #HealthEducation #DiseasePrevention #CommunityEngagement #RiskCommunication #HygienePromotion #CommunityHealth

GEESI DHI volunteers engaged children aged 9–15 in an interactive session on the importance of physical exercise, healthy living, respect, and positive social behavior. The activity was followed by a solidarity football match between GSI (Green) and CoHERE (Blue), bringing together refugee and host community children under the theme “Until Everyone Is Safe.” Before kickoff, coaches delivered a brief talk on respect, teamwork, and anti-bullying. Through mixed-team play, the event fostered friendship, reduced tensions, strengthened trust, and promoted social cohesion among children from diverse backgrounds.

#GEESIDHI #CoHERE #UntilEveryoneIsSafe #ChildProtection #SocialCohesion #RefugeeInclusion #CommunityBuilding

The Farm Cooperative, managed and operated by refugees, continues to make remarkable progress as planting activities unfold successfully across the farmland. Through collective effort, dedication, and teamwork, members are actively cultivating crops to strengthen food security, improve livelihoods, and promote self-reliance within the community. The cooperative serves as a powerful example of resilience and empowerment, demonstrating how refugees can work together to create sustainable opportunities for growth and economic stability. As planting continues, the outlook remains promising for a productive harvest and a stronger, more resilient community.

#GEESIDHI #CoHERE #FarmCooperative #RefugeeLed #FoodSecurity #Livelihoods #SelfReliance #CommunityEmpowerment #SustainableAgriculture #RefugeeResilience

GEESI DHI facilitated a Focus Group Discussion on Gender-Based Violence (GBV), with a special focus on sexual violence, bringing together 11 women and 4 girls from the community. The session provided a safe space for participants to discuss the impact of sexual violence, share experiences, increase awareness of available support services, and strengthen community efforts toward prevention, protection, and survivor-centered response. Together, we continue to promote dignity, safety, and empowerment for women and girls.

#GEESIDHI #CoHERE #GBVPrevention #EndSexualViolence #WomenAndGirls #Protection #Safeguarding #CommunityEngagement #RefugeeProtection

GEESI DHI carried out a door-to-door sensitization campaign in Adagom 1 Refugee Camp focused on Gender-Based Violence (GBV), child protection, and preventive health awareness. Community members were educated on the causes and effects of GBV, reporting mechanisms, and the importance of creating safe environments for women and children. Parents were also engaged on child protection issues, including stranger awareness, child safety, and the role of the Emergency Response Unit in handling urgent protection concerns. In addition, awareness was raised on preventive health measures against viruses spread by rats and other emerging diseases, emphasizing hygiene, sanitation, and early reporting of symptoms to health authorities.

GEESI DHI conducted a Focus Group Discussion with women in Adagom 1 Refugee Camp on the psychological effects of Sexual Exploitation. The session highlighted emotional trauma, depression, anxiety, PTSD, trust issues, social withdrawal, risky behaviors, and physical symptoms such as sleep disturbances and headaches, while promoting awareness, healing, psychosocial support, and community resilience among survivors.

#GEESIDHI #CoHERE #Protection #GBVPrevention #MentalHealth #PsychosocialSupport #RefugeeProtection #WomenAndGirls #EndSexualExploitation #Safeguarding #HumanitarianResponse #MHPSS #RefugeeSupport #Adagom1 #CommunityHealing

GEESI Development and Humanitarian Initiative organized a focused group discussion with women on the issue of Gender-Based Violence (GBV), particularly sexual exploitation through the offering of money, gifts, or favors in exchange for sex. The session created a safe space for women to openly share experiences, challenges, and concerns affecting their communities.

During the discussion, participants identified several key causes of sexual exploitation, including poverty and dependency, lack of education and awareness, weak justice systems and fear of reporting, as well as conflict and displacement situations that increase vulnerability among women and girls. Many participants highlighted how economic hardship and limited access to opportunities often expose women and girls to exploitation and abuse.

Although the Integrated Cooperative started earlier, the work is steadily progressing, and the impact is already becoming visible.

We witnessed today that this cooperative goes beyond routine farming activities, it reflected strong commitment, unity, and resilience. The volunteers truly impressed the Director with their dedication and teamwork. They appreciation for this opportunity was genuine, and their enthusiasm was clear as they promised to keep coming with renewed energy. Their level of commitment speaks volumes about the future of this initiative.

Special appreciation to UNHCR and partners, as well as Cohere, for their continued humanitarian support. Deep gratitude to GDH Initiative and its Director, Mr. Cheng Laban, for making this crop farming empowerment possible.

A conflict resolution session was conducted in the Ukende host community to address and resolve misinformation that had created tension between residents of the Ukende Refugee Settlement and members of the host community. The program aimed to promote dialogue, clarify misunderstandings, and strengthen peaceful coexistence between both groups.

During the session, community members from both the refugee settlement and the host community were encouraged to openly share their concerns and perspectives. Facilitators guided the discussion to correct misinformation and emphasize the importance of mutual respect, communication, and collaboration.

The dialogue helped to ease tensions, build trust, and reinforce the shared responsibility of maintaining peace within the community. Participants expressed commitment to improved communication and cooperation moving forward, highlighting the importance of unity and understanding between the refugee population and the host community.

A focused group session on menstrual health and hygiene was conducted with young refugee girls at Ukende Settlement. The session aimed to raise awareness on proper menstrual hygiene practices, address myths and misconceptions surrounding menstruation, and create a safe space for the girls to openly discuss their experiences and concerns.

During the discussion, participants were educated on the importance of personal hygiene, safe use and disposal of sanitary materials, and maintaining dignity and confidence during menstruation. The session encouraged open dialogue, allowing the girls to ask questions and share challenges they face during their menstrual cycles.

The activity concluded with the distribution of sanitary pads and hygiene kits to support the girls in managing their menstrual health safely and comfortably. The session contributed to promoting awareness, confidence, and improved menstrual hygiene practices among the participants.

Volunteers from GEESI and Development and Humanitarian Initiative (DHI) conducted a sensitization session with students at Government Secondary School Ukende to commemorate International Women's Day.

The session focused on educating students about youth rights, gender equality, and the prevention of Gender-Based Violence (GBV). Students were encouraged to understand their rights, promote respect for one another, and report any form of violence or abuse.

The activity contributed to increasing awareness among students and promoting a safe and respectful school environment.

Child Protection officers conducted structured psychosocial support activities for children in Adagom I Settlement, aimed at strengthening their emotional well-being and resilience. During the sessions, the children were encouraged to prioritize education as a critical pathway to achieving their future aspirations.

In addition, the children were guided through age-appropriate Gender-Based Violence (GBV) awareness topics. These included education on identifying sensitive parts of the body, understanding personal safety, and learning appropriate reporting mechanisms in cases of abuse or violations. The sessions were designed to empower the children with knowledge, confidence, and the ability to seek help when necessary.

A stress awareness session was conducted for elderly men at Adagom 1 Settlement. Inorder to help them understand stress and how it affects their well-being. Many participants shared that displacement, poor health, loneliness, and loss of family and livelihoods have increased their stress levels.

The session explained what stress is, its causes and effects, and introduced simple coping strategies such as talking to others, relaxation breathing, light physical movement, and faith-based support.

Participants reported feeling relieved, understood, and more hopeful after the session. The activity helped strengthen peer support and promoted positive coping among elderly men in the settlement.

Home visits were conducted to follow up on children who are not attending school. Three homes were visited, and it was found that 6 children (2 boys, 4 girls) were not in school due to:

- Lack of school fees and unstable finances

- Mobility challenges due to the distance to school and the young age of the children

On February 10, a session was held with 29 children (17 boys, 12 girls) on child protection topics, including:

- Introduction to child protection

- The role of a child

- Child services and prevention of abuse

- Challenges faced by children, including lack of access to education.

- key observation

indicate that, community engagement and awareness are crucial for effective child protection.

World Cancer Day under the theme United by Unique, Stronger Together. GEESI DHI had a community awareness session conducted with elderly men to promote cancer prevention, early detection, and access to care.

Elderly men were sensitized on prostate cancer and the importance of regular screening and timely medical support.

The session strengthened community knowledge, reduced stigma, and encouraged participants to seek health services early. It reinforced the message that early action saves lives and that no one should be left behind in the fight against cancer.

#WorldCancerDay #CancerAwareness #EarlyDetection #CommunityHealth #MenHealth #MothersHealth #CancerPrevention #HealthForAll #LeaveNoOneBehind

World Cancer Day under the theme United by Unique, Stronger Together. GEESI DHI had a community awareness session conducted with elderly men and lactating mothers to promote cancer prevention, early detection, and access to care.

Elderly men were sensitized on prostate cancer and the importance of regular screening and timely medical support. Lactating mothers received information on breast and cervical cancer, including early warning signs and the value of routine health checks.

The session strengthened community knowledge, reduced stigma, and encouraged participants to seek health services early. It reinforced the message that early action saves lives and that no one should be left behind in the fight against cancer.

#WorldCancerDay #CancerAwareness #EarlyDetection #CommunityHealth #MenHealth #MothersHealth #CancerPrevention #HealthForAll #LeaveNoOneBehind

This image captures a powerful moment of compassion and solidarity as GESSI DHI reaches out to a person living with a disability in extremely vulnerable conditions. Found lying on a thin mattress in a bare room, the individual faces daily challenges not only from physical limitations, but also from poverty, isolation, and lack of access to basic care. Through the distribution of essential items, the team helped ease hardship and restore dignity, reminding them they are not alone.
GESSI DHI remains committed to standing with the most vulnerable, advocating for inclusion, and working to ensure that people living with disabilities are treated with respect, care, and humanity. Together, we can build a community where everyone is seen, valued, and supported.

#GESSIDHI #HumanitarianAction #DisabilityInclusion #DignityForAll #LeaveNoOneBehind #CommunitySupport #HopeInAction #InclusiveSociety #CareAndCompassion #SupportTheVulnerable

GESSI DHI carried out door-to-door community sensitization in Adagom 1 Settlement to raise awareness about its programs and services. The team engaged households to introduce GESSI DHI, explain available support, and encourage community members to access services.

This activity strengthened trust, improved understanding, and promoted community participation.

#GESSIDHI #CommunityOutreach #Adagom1 #DoorToDoor #Protection #MHPSS #GBVPrevention #ChildProtection #CommunityDevelopment

Building strong teams starts from within.

GEESI DHI successfully held an Indoor Capacity Building Workshop with our dedicated volunteers, focused on strengthening skills, sharing knowledge, and deepening our commitment to community service. The session created a safe space for learning, collaboration, and reflection empowering volunteers with practical tools to better serve vulnerable communities with dignity and compassion.

We are grateful for the passion, energy, and willingness of our volunteers to grow and lead. Together, we continue to build a stronger, more resilient humanitarian response from the inside out.

#GEESIDHI
#CapacityBuilding
#VolunteerEngagement
#HumanitarianAction
#CommunityDevelopment
#TeamStrength
#EmpoweringVolunteers

GEESI DHI executive director and some colleagues held a meaningful meeting with elderly refugees including persons with disabilities to listen, learn, and discuss the most pressing issues affecting our daily lives. The dialogue focused on access to basic needs, healthcare, protection, inclusion, and dignity.

This engagement reaffirmed our commitment to ensuring that the voices of the most vulnerable are heard and reflected in humanitarian responses. By working together with the community, we aim to promote inclusive, people-centered solutions that uphold dignity and leave no one behind.

#GEESIDHI #CommunityEngagement #RefugeeSupport #ElderlyCare #DisabilityInclusion #HumanitarianAction #LeaveNoOneBehind #ProtectionAndDignity

During a recent focus group discussion with young refugee girls, we distributed essential core relief items to support their dignity, safety, and wellbeing. The session provided a safe and supportive space for the girls to openly share their experiences, challenges, and aspirations, while also receiving practical support.

The distribution went beyond relief it was an act of listening, care, and solidarity. The girls expressed appreciation not only for the items received, but for the opportunity to be heard and valued. By linking meaningful dialogue with direct support, we continue to promote protection, resilience, and empowerment among young refugee girls.

#RefugeeGirls #CoreReliefItems #DignityAndCare #HumanitarianAction #GirlsProtection #SafeSpaces #Empowerment #FocusGroupDiscussion #LeaveNoOneBehind

GESSI DHI conducted a targeted humanitarian distribution of food items and clothing to the most vulnerable elderly men within the community. The intervention aimed to address immediate basic needs, enhance dignity, and reduce hardship among this highly at-risk group. Beneficiaries were identified through community-based vulnerability criteria to ensure that assistance reached those in greatest need. The distribution was carried out in an orderly and respectful manner, with participation from community leaders, Director of GEESI DHI and volunteers to ensure transparency and accountability.

This initiative contributed to improving food security, wellbeing, and protection for vulnerable elderly men facing socioeconomic challenges.

Monitoring and Evaluation activities were conducted to track progress, ensure quality service delivery, and inform adaptive programming in border communities. Key activities included baseline and routine data collection on GBV risks and community awareness. We assessed the quality, accessibility, and survivor-centeredness of GBV services, including safe spaces and referral pathways. Beneficiary feedback was collected through FGDs and key informant interviews to strengthen accountability and community engagement. GBV data were collected and managed in line with ethical standards and confidentiality principles. Periodic data reviews informed reporting, learning, and program adjustments.

Brief Report on Christmas and New Year Celebration with Children

GEESI DHI organized a Christmas and New Year celebration session for refugee and host community children to promote social cohesion, joy, and psychosocial well-being. The activity brought children from different backgrounds together in a safe and friendly environment, fostering unity and mutual understanding.

The session included games, songs, dancing, and interactive group activities designed to help children relax, express themselves, and experience positive social interaction. Special attention was given to inclusiveness, ensuring equal participation of both refugee and host community children.

The celebration provided an opportunity to reduce stress, strengthen peer relationships, and create happy memories during the festive period. Parents and community members expressed appreciation for the initiative, noting its positive impact on the children’s emotional well-being.

The GDHI MHM Team worked in Partnership with Caritas, for the distribution of MHM kits, Body Hygiene provisions and more, to both breastfeeding and non-breastfeeding Women, Young Adolescent Girls and the Older Adolescent Girls from both Refugee and Host Communities, Who were part of the GIRL SHINE CLASSES in Ogoja...

The Event was a Success

#MHM

#girlshinebright

#Caritas

#Cohere

A general sensitization session on Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and the psychological effects of digital-based violence was conducted at Ukende Settlement. The activity reached approximately 150 participants, including men and women.

The session focused on raising awareness of different forms of GBV, with emphasis on digital-based violence such as online harassment, cyberbullying, and non-consensual sharing of private content. Participants were educated on the psychological impacts of such violence, including anxiety, depression, fear, social withdrawal, and loss of self-esteem.

GEESI DHI has a brief awareness session on sexual exploitation, harassment, and digital violence which was held in Adagom 3 Settlement with 25 participants (17 women aged 19–25 and 8 men aged 25–35). Turnout was encouraging, reflecting strong community interest in protection and safe online practices.

#EndGBV #StopSEAH #DigitalSafety #ProtectionFirst #Adagom3 #CommunityEngagement

A focused group discussion was conducted with women from the Obanliku border community to enhance awareness and strengthen protection against digital violence. Participants discussed common risks, including online harassment, unauthorized sharing of personal information, and digital exploitation. The session highlighted the need for safer online practices, confidential reporting pathways, and continued community-based sensitization. Participants expressed increased understanding of digital risks and committed to promoting safer digital engagement within their households and community.

A GBV sensitization session was conducted with 14 adolescent girls aged 11–18 years. The discussion focused on understanding and preventing gender-based violence, with emphasis on early identification of risks, safe reporting pathways, and promoting a supportive peer environment. Participants actively engaged, shared experiences, and expressed increased awareness of protective measures. The session contributed to strengthening community-based prevention and enhancing girls’ knowledge of available GBV services.

A GBV awareness session was conducted with adolescent girls aged 15–18, focusing on the different types of Gender-Based Violence, with emphasis on physical and emotional violence. Participants actively engaged in discussions on risks, prevention, and available reporting pathways. During the session, we recorded one pregnant adolescent girl and one participant living with a disability. Both cases will be followed up through appropriate protection and referral mechanisms to ensure safety, dignity, and access to services.

The day 3 of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence was successfully commemorated at Adagom 1 Settlement, bringing together women, men, youth, community leaders, and GBV volunteers. The event reinforced community commitment to ending all forms of GBV, with key messages centered on prevention, reporting pathways, and the importance of survivor-centered support. GEESI DHI staff led interactive discussions, awareness sessions, and closing reflections, emphasizing collective responsibility in creating safer, more inclusive communities. Participants expressed renewed dedication to sustaining GBV prevention efforts beyond the campaign period.

#16DaysOfActivism #EndGBV #GEESIDHI #UNiTE #ProtectionForAll #Adagom1 #RefugeeResponse

World Disability Day was commemorated at Ukende Settlement with persons with disabilities from both refugee and host communities.
A psychosocial sensitization session was conducted for Persons Living With Disabilities (PLWDs) to strengthen awareness of the emotional and social impacts of disability. The discussion addressed stigma, isolation, stress, and barriers to participation, while promoting coping strategies, resilience, and access to available support services. The activity enhanced inclusion, wellbeing, and dignity for PLWDs within the community.
The event promoted inclusion, dignity, and equal participation while highlighting ongoing protection and support needs.

As part of the 16 Days of Activism, GEESI DHI facilitated theie second activity which was an educative session with young girls on the effects of digital GBV, emphasizing safe online practices, digital rights, and mechanisms for seeking help.

Breastfeeding mothers participated in a sensitization on mental health and nutrition, highlighting coping strategies, maternal wellbeing, and the importance of adequate nutrition for both mother and infant within humanitarian settings.

A GBV sensitization session was conducted with school children in Ikom, focusing on strengthening their understanding of safety, respect, and early reporting mechanisms. The activity aimed to promote child protection and reduce risks of violence through age-appropriate awareness.

A targeted engagement was held with 15 elderly men to address early child marriage and digital GBV. The session held by GEESI DHI volunteer emphasized harmful impacts on girls, legal frameworks, and the role of male community leaders in prevention and positive behavioral change.

GDHI GBV Sensitization – Day 3 of the 16DaysOfActivism

We reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that women and girls especially those in displacement can participate safely and confidently in digital spaces.

Protect her voice. Protect her future.

Together, we can prevent and respond to digital violence, uphold dignity, and strengthen pathways to safety and empowerment.

Every action counts. Let’s stand united to End Digital Violence Against Women and Girls.

#DigitalSafety #16DaysOfActivismAgainstGenderBasedViolence #OrangeTheWorld Cohere UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency

GDHI conducted a series of focus group discussions at Adagom 3 to strengthen community protection, engaging 25 children (22 boys, 3 girls) on the effects of child labour, 18 women (ages 35–45 and 46–55) on digital violence and sexual exploitation each receiving a ₦500 transport stipend and 8 men (ages 19–25 and 36–45) on the same topic, all aimed at promoting awareness, safe practices, and a more protective environment for families in the settlement. #ChildSafeguarding #GBVPrevention #CommunityAwareness #GDHI

At Adagom 1 Refugee Settlement (CBI Hall), GDHI facilitated a focus group discussion with six nursing mothers on “Body and Environmental Hygiene”
The session enhanced mothers’ awareness of safe hygiene practices, supporting their health, preventing avoidable infections, and promoting a cleaner, healthier environment for their families.

#HealthAwareness #WomenEmpowerment #RefugeeResponse #CommunityEngagement #GDHI