First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has called on all citizens to use the ongoing 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence as a rallying point to challenge harmful behaviors that perpetuate violence and discrimination against women and girls.
Speaking in a statement on Monday to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, the First Lady emphasised the importance of collective responsibility in addressing gender-based violence.
She highlighted the global and national prevalence of such violence, which affects nearly one in three women worldwide and persists in various forms across Nigeria.
Mrs. Tinubu particularly drew attention to harmful practices like child marriage and female genital mutilation, noting that these are often justified by cultural or religious norms and disproportionately affect women and girls in rural and underserved communities.
The Nation reports that the First Lady outlined the need for a multi-sectoral approach to tackling the issue, stressing the importance of reporting and prosecuting perpetrators, as well as providing increased support for survivors of violence.
She also identified formal education for girls as a powerful tool for empowerment, enabling them to make informed choices and break free from cycles of abuse.
She urged Nigerians to dedicate the 16-day campaign to advancing efforts to eliminate gender-based violence and foster a safer society where individuals, regardless of gender, can live free from fear.
Mrs. Tinubu reaffirmed her commitment to advocating for women’s rights and encouraged collective action to address this pressing issue.
Today, I join the global community in commemorating the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, marking the start of the 16 Days of Activism again’t Gender-based Violence.
“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.
“Although we are making remarkable progress, however, many women and girls, especially in rural and underserved areas, remain trapped in these cycles of violence and inequality.
“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.
“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 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, which began on November 25, will run until December 10, Human Rights Day, with global and national activities aimed at raising awareness and inspiring change.
Source:The Nation
