From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
The Federal Ministry of Women Affairs has launched preparations for the 2024 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, convening key stakeholders to strategise on impactful initiatives.
The theme for this year’s observance is “Towards Beijing +30: UNITE to End Violence Against Women and Girls,” which aims to consolidate past gains in addressing GBV.
The planning meeting, held on Monday, November 11 in Abuja, aimed to enhance mobilization and support services for survivors of gender-based violence (GBV), according to a statement issued by Head, Information and Public Relations, Grace Njoku.
The Minister, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, represented by Director, Women Development Department of the Ministry,
Friya Bulus emphasised the urgency of addressing GBV, stating, “Gender-Based Violence remains a hydra-headed monster affecting millions of women, children, and marginalised communities in Nigeria.”
She urged stakeholders to ensure that efforts continue beyond the campaign period to sustain progress.
The Minister highlighted a disturbing trend: reported cases of GBV surged during the COVID-19 pandemic, prompting the Federal Executive Council to declare a State of Emergency against GBV. “We must accelerate progress towards ending violence against women and girls,” Sulaiman-Ibrahim remarked, calling for collaboration among government bodies, civil society organisations, and the private sector.
Activities planned for the campaign include town hall meetings with women’s groups and awareness rallies across six geopolitical zones.
The Ministry’s efforts reflect a commitment to making Nigeria safer for women and girls. As Sulaiman-Ibrahim stated, “Our goal is to bring cases of GBV to their barest minimum,” underscoring the need for a united front against this pervasive issue.