by George Ozalla
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) on Friday launched the 2025 edition of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence in Abuja, calling on government, institutions and citizens to step up efforts to protect women and girls. At a press conference, the Executive Secretary, Dr. Tony Ojukwu, said the campaign remains crucial for raising awareness, holding institutions accountable and amplifying the voices of survivors.
Dr. Ojukwu warned that gender-based violence continues to threaten families, communities and national development, noting that many women and girls still face daily risks in homes, workplaces and public spaces despite existing laws and advocacy efforts. He announced that the Commission will expand community sensitisation, strengthen investigative mechanisms, build the capacity of first responders and work closely with civil society and security agencies to ensure survivors receive timely and dignified support.
According to the NHRC, reports of gender-based violence from state offices have been rising steadily, with many complaints involving domestic assault, harmful traditional practices, workplace violations and attacks on school-age girls. Internal monitoring shows that a significant number of survivors struggle to access legal, medical and psychosocial services, highlighting the need for stronger institutional coordination and public awareness.
Women’s rights advocate Ene Edeh praised the NHRC for its leadership in the campaign, urging governments to back commitments with tangible reforms such as funding shelters, strengthening community education and reinforcing legal protections. She emphasized that lasting change will require families, schools and institutions to challenge cultural norms that enable abuse.
Bunmi Dipo-Salami, Executive Director of BAOBAB for Women’s Human Rights, said women continue to face barriers when seeking justice, including cultural constraints, economic hardship and weak institutional systems. She called for more survivor-focused reforms and reminded authorities that the activism period should be a springboard for concrete policy action, not a symbolic observance.
The NHRC also urged the National Assembly to consider legislation creating special constituencies for women to ensure fair representation in governance. The Commission said its 16-day agenda will include state-level roadshows, capacity-building workshops, community dialogues and advocacy visits, while calling on all 36 state governments to enforce existing laws, particularly the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act, and to make justice mechanisms accessible and effective.
Observed globally from November 25 to December 10, the 16 Days of Activism campaign seeks to mobilize communities, strengthen institutional responses and keep the spotlight on ending violence against women and girls. This year, the NHRC has highlighted the theme of united action to end digital violence, reflecting emerging threats in the digital age.
