Empowering Female Athletes Through Taekwondo in Nigeria
Over 100 female athletes from various states in Nigeria have taken part in a two-day taekwondo training program aimed at equipping them with self-defence skills and leadership abilities to combat gender-based violence (GBV). The event, held at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, brought together participants from Abia, Cross River, Delta, Oyo, Ondo, Edo, and Ekiti States.
The initiative, organized by the Youth Empowerment Foundation (YEP), is focused on using sports as a tool for empowerment. According to Tony Eleme, the Programme Officer of YEP, the foundation uses taekwondo and football to help girls build self-confidence, self-esteem, and leadership qualities while raising awareness about GBV.
Eleme emphasized that empowering the girl-child is essential for the overall development of the nation. He highlighted the increasing prevalence of GBV and the urgent need to teach teenage girls how to defend themselves, maintain confidence, and recognize signs of abuse.
“Sometimes these girls are exploited without even realizing it. Through sports and education, we’re building their awareness and resilience,” he stated.
Addressing the Impact of Gender-Based Violence
Dr. Nosakhare Erumwunse, the Edo Coordinator of the Child Protection Network Nigeria, also addressed the participants during the event. He noted that while GBV affects both genders, women and girls are disproportionately impacted, with over 70% of victims being female.
Erumwunse warned the participants against using their newly acquired taekwondo skills for unnecessary conflicts. Instead, he encouraged them to focus on discipline and competence. He added that girls who have learned taekwondo are less likely to be victims of sexual assault because they know how to defend themselves and disarm potential attackers.
The Role of Sports in Combating GBV
The training program underscores the importance of integrating sports into broader efforts to address GBV. By teaching young women practical self-defence techniques, the program aims to create a safer environment for girls and women across Nigeria.
Taekwondo, in particular, offers more than just physical skills. It promotes mental discipline, emotional control, and a sense of responsibility—qualities that are crucial for personal and community development.
Participants were also educated on the social and psychological impacts of GBV, including the long-term effects on mental health, education, and economic opportunities. The training provided a platform for open discussions, allowing girls to share their experiences and learn from one another.
Long-Term Goals and Community Impact
The Youth Empowerment Foundation has set clear goals for the program. Beyond immediate skill acquisition, the initiative seeks to foster a culture of empowerment and resilience among young women. This includes encouraging them to become role models in their communities and advocate for gender equality.
The program also aims to reduce the stigma surrounding GBV and promote a supportive environment where victims feel safe to speak out. By creating a network of empowered female athletes, the foundation hopes to inspire a generation of strong, confident, and informed young women.
Conclusion
The taekwondo training program in Benin City represents a significant step forward in addressing the challenges posed by gender-based violence in Nigeria. Through a combination of physical training, education, and mentorship, the initiative is helping to build a stronger, more resilient future for young women across the country.