…………..Permanent Secretary Calls for Peaceful Conflict Resolution and End to All Forms of Abuse.
Abuja, Nigeria — Ambassador Gabriel Aduda, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, has called on religious leaders nationwide to champion the fight against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) using their influential platforms to foster peace, tolerance, and respect for human rights.
Speaking during a Special Prayer Session at Living Faith Church, Jahi, as part of activities marking the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, Ambassador Aduda emphasized the urgent need to eradicate violence in all its forms.
“Violence has claimed too many lives and must not be allowed to continue,” he stated. “The life of every individual is sacred, and safeguarding these lives is fundamental to building a happier, more prosperous Nigeria.”
Highlighting the role of faith-based institutions in addressing societal ills, Ambassador Aduda cited Ezekiel 45:9, which calls for the cessation of violence and oppression, urging religious leaders to appeal to the conscience of perpetrators.
“We believe the Church and the Mosque hold a unique power to reach the hearts of abusers and inspire lasting change. The Minister led a delegation to the Mosque last Friday, and today, we join our Christian brothers and sisters to seek divine intervention and raise awareness.”
He further appealed to men to embrace non-violent means of resolving conflicts, emphasizing that violence not only harms victims but tears at the fabric of society.
“We say no to abuse, and we encourage all men to say no to abuse. There are many peaceful ways to settle disputes without resorting to violence. This is not just a physical battle but a spiritual one, and today, we ask God to touch the hearts of abusers and transform their ways.”
In his remarks, Pastor Adeniyi Alabi, Senior Pastor of Living Faith Church, Jahi, condemned all forms of violence as inhumane and urged proactive measures to address GBV. He commended the Ministry for its unwavering commitment to combating abuse and pledged the continued support of religious leaders, highlighting the alignment of the campaign with divine teachings.
As the Ministry intensifies its advocacy during this year’s 16 Days of Activism, it reiterates the critical role of community and religious leaders in spreading the message: violence is never the answer, and every life matters.
For further information, please contact:
Federal Ministry of Women Affairs
Media and Public Relations Unit
