Africa
THE National Orientation Agency (NOA), National Council of Women Societies (NCWS), and Heir Women Hub on Thursday organised a sensitisation walk to advocate for an end to Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in Nigeria.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the walk began at the NOA headquarters in Garki Area 1 and ended at the Old Parade Ground in Garki Area 10, in Abuja.
Mrs Esther Akor, a Deputy Director in the Department of Public Enlightenment and Mass Mobilisation of the Agency, explained that the walk marked the conclusion of the 16 days of activities.
“The 16 Days of Activism runs from November 25 to December 10 every year.
“We have our staff and partners participating in today’s walk, “Our slogan is, ‘When you see something, say something.’ Our culture of silence must end.
“If you witness issues like female genital mutilation, child marriage, wife battering, or sexual harassment, report them to the relevant authorities,” she said.
She urged the girl-child to focus on education and the future, emphasising the importance of speaking out against abuse.
“If you are a victim of genital mutilation or sexual harassment, speak out. Let those around you know what is happening.
“If abuse is occurring at home, reach out to others for help,” Akor added.
Mr Anthony Eromosele, the Special Assistant on Partnership and Programmes to the Director-General of NOA, Malam Lanre Issa-Onilu, also spoke, stressing that the road walk was part of a global movement to end GBV.
“As an agency, we are also marking World Human Rights Day by lending our voice to the call for an end to bullying.
“We urge everyone to speak out. When you see something, say something.
“School authorities should never dismiss reports of GBV or bullying. Schools should listen carefully to children so that they feel free to report any incidents of abuse.
“Our advocacy doesn’t stop here; we are taking it online to continue spreading awareness,” Eromosele stated.
Ms. Aunli Aniebo, Executive Director of Heir Women Hub, called on the government to ensure the effective implementation of policies and programmes addressing GBV.
“There is a need for action, not just words. The government must take this matter seriously. GBV is widespread in Nigeria; we have high rates of out-of-school children.
“Female genital mutilation still persists, sexual harassment continues in workplaces, and the issue of sex-for-grades is ongoing. The government must act now because it can happen to anyone,” she said.
Mrs. Nnenna Emedolibe, Programme Officer at NCWS Abuja, emphasised that GBV was a violation of human rights.
“We are not taking this issue lightly, and there is no excuse for such violations. We are urging women to speak out now. Don’t remain silent.
“When you see something, say something. Those who violate the rights of children and engage in other vices must stop because the law will catch up with them,” she said.
Emedolibe also referenced a circular from the Federal Ministry of Education to all schools, mandating that bullying was not tolerated and that severe consequences would be imposed on perpetrators.
One of the participants, Miss Esther Aseobo, a 300-level Computer Science student at Benue State University, also advocated for stronger action against GBV offenders.
She encouraged students to report GBV incidents to authorities and called on schools to establish security measures to address issues of GBV in institutions of higher learning.(NAN)
12th December, 2024.C.E
Tags: National Council of Women Societies National Orientation Agency NCWS
