The Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, led by Minister Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, is spearheading a nationwide campaign against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) from November 25 to December 10, 2024. This initiative is part of the United Nations’ 16 Days of Activism, themed “Towards Beijing +30: UNiTE to End Violence Against Women and Girls”.
The campaign aims to mobilize Nigerian women, Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), private sectors, and other stakeholders to join forces against GBV. Activities lined up for the campaign include town hall meetings with women groups, GBV awareness rallies in six geopolitical zones, and interdenominational prayers in mosques and churches nationwide.
According to Minister Sulaiman-Ibrahim, GBV remains a significant threat to millions of women, children, and marginalized communities in Nigeria. The COVID-19 pandemic saw a disturbing rise in reported cases, prompting the Federal Executive Council to pass a resolution calling for urgent measures against the menace.
The Minister emphasized the need for sustainability in addressing GBV, beyond the 16-day campaign. She urged government agencies, civil society organizations, and private sectors to accelerate progress in ending violence against women and girls.
Key Campaign Initiatives:
UNiTE Campaign: A global call to action to increase awareness and advocacy efforts
#NoExcuse Campaign: Urgent investments to prevent violence against women and girls
COMMIT Initiative: Governments making new national commitments to end violence against women and girls
Adolescent Health: Addressing health risks and needs of adolescents
Community actions are encouraged, including reporting abusers, signing pledges against GBV, and promoting gender equality. The 16 Days of Activism campaign, launched in 1991, has become a global movement to prevent and eliminate violence against women and girls.
