…..Says 30% of Nigerian women have suffered physical or sexual violence.
Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, the Minister of Women Affairs, has called for a reinforced approach to combating gender-based violence (GBV) in Nigeria.
Speaking, at a media briefing held on Monday, to launch the 2024 “16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence” campaign, the Minister revealed that 30% of Nigerian women aged 15 to 49 have suffered physical or sexual violence.
She emphasized the urgent need to address the issue of GBV in Nigeria, which she described as a societal challenge that impedes national development.
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.
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,” she concluded.
