NHRC Launches 16-Day Activism Against Gender-Based Violence In Nigeria

Abuja, Nigeria – The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has launched a 16-day activism campaign against gender-based violence (GBV) as part of the 2024 International Human Rights Day celebrations.

The campaign, themed “Equality –Reducing Inequality and Advancing Human Rights,” aims to tackle the pervasive issue of GBV in Nigeria, where, according to the NHRC, human rights violations, including GBV, remain alarmingly high.

Addressing a press conference in Abuja, NHRC Executive Secretary Dr. Tony Ojukwu highlighted the urgent need for collective action.

He stated that the campaign will employ a multi-pronged approach, focusing on awareness-raising, dialogue, and advocating for policy reforms to prevent and respond to GBV, particularly against women and girls.

The campaign, undertaken in partnership with the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) programme, funded by the European Union and implemented by International IDEA, will involve a range of activities nationwide.

These include roadshows, advocacy visits to government officials, including state First Ladies and judiciary leaders, and community engagement with youth, women’s groups, religious and traditional leaders, and health workers.

Schools will also participate, using creative methods such as drama and songs to educate students on GBV prevention and gender equality.

The 16-day activism will culminate in a Human Rights Walk and an awards dinner on December 10th, recognizing individuals and organizations championing human rights in Nigeria.

Other planned events include student debates and quizzes on human rights, forums for civil society and lawmakers, and exhibitions showcasing the work of human rights defenders.

A high-level forum on human rights and corporate responsibility and a town hall meeting on innovative litigation approaches are also scheduled.

Dr Ojukwu expressed gratitude to RoLAC for its support, emphasizing the timeliness of the campaign given the staggering number of human rights violations reported.

The NHRC received 427,606 complaints in October 2024 alone.  This aligns with global statistics from UN Women, which indicate that nearly one in three women experience violence in their lifetime, with girls facing a particularly high risk.

The campaign’s significance lies in its comprehensive approach to addressing GBV in Nigeria, leveraging partnerships and community engagement to promote lasting change and ensure the realisation of fundamental human rights for all.