2 hours ago
3
Nigeria’s Minister of Women Affairs, Hajia
Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, has frowned at the continuous gender based violence which has left many women and children emotional hurt.
This is as she emphasized the urgent need to address the issue of GBV in Nigeria, describing it as a societal challenge that impedes national development
Iman who called for a reinforced approach to combating gender-based violence (GBV) in Nigeria, stated this at a media briefing to launch the 2024 “16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence” campaign,
The Women Affairs Minister who revealed that 30% of Nigerian women aged 15 to 49 have suffered physical or sexual violence, acknowledged that the ugly menace has to be frontally addressed with a deep sense of urgency and hope as the Ministry commences the 16 Days of activism against GBV.
According to her, the global campaign, which started on the 25th of November the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, to 10th December Human Rights Day, should not be seen as just another calendar event.
“It should serve as a stark reminder that violence against women and girls is not inevitable, but preventable, Imaan said.
“This year’s campaign, themed “Unite Campaign: Towards Beijing to Prevent Violence Against Women and Girls,” commemorates the commitments made at the 1995 Beijing Conference, which advanced global efforts for gender equality.
“Gender-based violence is a gross violation of Human Rights. It prevents women and girls from reaching their full potential and undermines our nation’s progress. Violence knows no tribe or creed—it cuts across social and economic boundaries,” The Minister stated.
Sulaiman-Ibrahim pointed out the increasing incidence of abuse, particularly among vulnerable groups, including women in conflict zones, girls with disabilities, and young girls in rural areas.
“The ugly trend which is growing, is unacceptable and represents a gross violation of human rights and undermines the very fabric of our society, adding:
“It prevents women and girls from achieving their full potential and hinders our nation’s progress toward inclusive development. The Minister stated
“As you are already aware, the statistics before us on gender-based violence in Nigeria remain deeply troubling. Even as we embark on this campaign today, somewhere in a community, a little child has just been violated, a woman has just been abused, a young girl’s life is at risk, all for no just cause.
While commending progress in legislative reforms, such as the domestication of the Child Rights Act in all 36 states and the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act in 35 states, she stressed the importance of effective enforcement of these laws.
“The Ministry, in collaboration with partners, will organize various events across the country during the 16-day campaign, including sensitization campaigns, school visits, workshops, and an awareness walk to the National Assembly.
“Efforts will also focus on empowering girls in rural communities and enhancing survivor support through Nigeria’s 47 Sexual Assault Referral Centres.
The Minister urged stakeholders to adopt a multi-sectoral approach, engage men and boys as allies, and promote education to challenge harmful cultural norms.
Additionally, she announced the launch of a National Electronic Dashboard to improve data collection and ensure accountability in GBV prevention.
Sulaiman-Ibrahim reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to creating a Nigeria where women and girls can live free from violence, fear, and discrimination. “When women and girls thrive, sustainable development is assured,”
“When I consider the amount of work ahead and compare it with the unwavering commitment and political-will demonstrated by President Bola Tinubu, and his wife, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, I am filled with confidence and hope. The Minister said.
