NHRC, RoLAC Launch “16 Days of Activism” Against Gender-Based Violence in Nigeria
By: Zagazola Makama
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), in collaboration with the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) programme, has commenced a nationwide series of events to mark the global 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence campaign. Running from November 25 to December 10, the campaign highlights the theme “Equality – Reducing Inequality and Advancing Human Rights”.
At a press briefing in Abuja, NHRC Executive Secretary, Dr. Tony Ojukwu, stressed the importance of the campaign as a call to action to address violence against women and girls in Nigeria.
He underscored the need for collaboration among stakeholders, including the media, faith-based organizations, civil society groups, and security agencies, to combat gender-based violence effectively.
“This year’s theme is a reminder of our collective responsibility to reaffirm our commitment to protecting the rights of every individual in Nigeria and beyond,” Ojukwu said.
The event, supported by the European Union and implemented by the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA), focuses on advocacy, sensitization, and legislative action to curb gender-based violence.
Gender-based violence remains a critical issue in Nigeria, with alarming statistics revealing that nearly one in three women globally experiences violence in their lifetime, according to UN Women. In Nigeria, girls face significant risks, with one in four adolescent girls reported to have suffered abuse by intimate partners.
In October 2024 alone, the NHRC received 427,606 complaints of human rights violations across its 38 offices nationwide, further emphasizing the urgency of addressing these challenges.
The campaign features a robust lineup of activities across the 36 states, aimed at raising awareness, fostering dialogue, and inspiring action.
These include advocacy visits to state assemblies, traditional and religious leaders, Chief Judges, and health facilities. Other events include school outreach programs, meetings with civil society organizations, and media engagements.
At the NHRC headquarters in Abuja, notable activities include debates and quiz competitions for schools, a human rights exhibition titled “Heroes of Human Rights,” and a Civil-Military Forum. The program will culminate with a Human Rights Dinner and Awards on December 10, commemorating International Human Rights Day.
Since 2019, RoLAC has spearheaded several initiatives during the 16 Days of Activism, leading to tangible results such as the establishment of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) courts in the Federal Capital Territory and the replication of Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs) nationwide.
Ojukwu highlighted that this year’s campaign also serves as a moment to reflect on Nigeria’s progress in advancing fundamental rights as enshrined in the 1999 Constitution and international human rights treaties.
“It challenges us to confront the gaps and obstacles that hinder the full realization of these rights,” he said.
With events planned from grassroots to national levels, the NHRC and its partners aim to create lasting change in addressing gender-based violence and promoting equality across Nigeria.
