Rita Odafe
Remi Tinubu, the First Lady, is urging for immediate action to combat gender-based violence as she participates in the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.
In a message shared on Monday via X, she outlined the commencement of the annual 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence,
“Almost one in three women globally face physical or sexual violence in their lives,” she stated, drawing attention to the seriousness of the situation.
She also mentioned the ongoing harmful practices of child marriage and female genital mutilation in Nigeria, which are frequently deemed acceptable by cultural or religious beliefs.
While she acknowledged the advancements made in addressing these challenges, she stressed that numerous women and girls—especially in rural and neglected areas—continue to be ensnared in cycles of violence and discrimination.
“Many women and girls continue to be caught in these cycles of violence and inequality,” she urged, calling for decisive action from society.
The International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, observed every year on November 25th, was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1999 to increase awareness of gender-based violence and galvanize global initiatives to tackle it.
The date honors the Mirabal sisters, who were political activists from the Dominican Republic and were brutally murdered in 1960 during the Trujillo regime.
This day marks the start of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, a worldwide campaign that culminates on International Human Rights Day, December 10.
In her statement, the First Lady emphasized the need for collective action, stressing the importance of promptly prosecuting offenders, enhancing support for survivors, and fostering safer environments.
“We must unite across all segments of society,” she insisted.
Education was spotlighted as a crucial means to disrupt these cycles.
“Access to formal education for girls is essential for liberating them and enabling informed decisions,” she advocated for programs that ensure educational opportunities for girls throughout the nation.
Her remarks resonated with various stakeholders and advocacy organizations. Gender rights advocate Amina Yusuf commended her focus on education, stating, “Her emphasis on education mirrors what we have observed in communities—empowered girls are more capable of resisting harmful traditions.”
Others, including legal expert Chidi Nwosu, echoed her demand for accountability.
“Efforts to prosecute offenders and secure justice for survivors must coincide with community-centered preventive strategies,” Nwosu remarked.
In closing, the First Lady called on all Nigerians to confront harmful behaviors and strive for a safer community.
“Let us unite to create a safer society where everyone, regardless of gender, can live free from violence,” she concluded.
