As the 2024 16 days of Activism on Elimination of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) kicks off in Abuja, the Federal Government has assured that it will not only strengthen legislation against the act but also ensure its implementation in order to create a free and safe environment for the growth and development of women and girls in line with contemporary global realities.
The Honourable Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim gave the assurance today in Abuja during the Joint National Press Briefing and Flag off of campaign on the Elimination of GBV in the country.
She stated that current reports indicate that 30% of Nigerian women and girls aged between 15 to 49 have experienced physical or sexual violence at some point in their lives, a trend which is totally unacceptable.
Sulaiman-Ibrahim highlighted that this violence occurs not only in homes, but extends to schools, workplaces, and communities, noting that violence does not know any tribe nor creed as it cuts across social and economic boundaries, affecting both young and old.
The growing trend is unacceptable and represents a gross violation of human rights and undermines the very fabric of our society. It prevents women and girls from achieving their full potential and hinders our nation’s progress toward inclusive development, she said.
The Minister informed that this year’s theme, Towards Beijing +30: UNITE to End Violence Against Women and Girls, calls for collective multi-sectoral and multi-stakeholder approach to address the pervasive issue.
She informed further that so far, 47 Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs) have been established across 22 States and the FCT, Abuja to ensure the provision of the needed support for survivors such as access to medical care, psychosocial support, safe spaces, and economic empowerment opportunities.
While explaining that GBV is not a women’s issue alone as it needs the deliberate engagement of men and boys as active allies in the fight, Sulaiman-Ibrahim called for advocacy as well as promotion of positive masculinity with a view to fostering a culture of respect and equality for all.
She commended the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led Administration for its unwavering commitment to the safety and upliftment of women and girls in the country to enable them contribute their quota to the socio-economic development of the nation.
In a welcome address, the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, Ambassador Gabriel Aduda stated that GBV remains a pervasive issue in societies, transcending borders, cultures, and socio-economic status, noting that it robs individuals of their dignity, undermine families, and hinder national development.
While commending the tireless efforts of development partners, Non Governmental Organisations, and gender activists for their efforts in the struggle, he emphasized the need to reinforce commitments, strengthen collaboration and empower survivors with a view to healing and rebuilding their lives.
Activities lined up for this year’s celebration include seminars, sensitization walks to the National Assembly, schools visit to selected rural communities in FCT, Nasarawa and Niger State, among others.
Signed
Mrs Grace Njoku
Head, Information and Public Relations
