From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
The First Lady of Nigeria, Oluremi Tinubu, has called for urgent action to combat the pervasive issue of gender-based violence, which affects nearly one in three women worldwide.
She reiterated that Nigeria must ensure timely prosecution of offenders and provide increased support for survivors.
She made this statement in her message as Nigeria joins the rest of the world to commemorate the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, which coincides with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.
“We must take collective action across all sectors of society. Reporting and timely prosecution of perpetrators, increased support for victims and survivors are vital to creating safer environments for women and girls,” she said.
Mrs. Tinubu highlighted the alarming statistics, pointing out that many women and girls in Nigeria continue to suffer from harmful practices such as child marriage and female genital mutilation, often justified by cultural and religious norms.
“Gender-based violence remains one of the most widespread human rights violations, with nearly one in three women worldwide experiencing physical or sexual violence in their lifetime. In Nigeria, harmful practices like child marriage and female genital mutilation are still prevalent, often justified by cultural or religious norms,” she said.
While noting that Nigeria has made progress, she regretted that many women and girls remain trapped in cycles of violence and inequality.
“Although we are making remarkable progress, many women and girls, especially in rural and underserved areas, remain trapped in these cycles of violence and inequality.”
The First Lady identified education as a crucial tool in breaking these cycles, advocating for formal education as a means to empower young girls to make informed choices.
“As we observe these 16 days of activism, I urge us to seize this period as a call to action for each of us to challenge harmful behaviours.
“For me, formal education for the girl child remains the key to liberating them and helping them make informed choices.
Let us work together to ensure a safer society where everyone, regardless of gender, can live without fear of violence,” she said.
The campaign runs until December 10, culminating on Human Rights Day, and aims to mobilise global efforts to end violence against women and girls.