The First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has called for urgent action to address gender-based violence as she participated in the global observance of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.
In a message shared on Monday via X, Tinubu highlighted the commencement of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.
She emphasized that nearly one in three women worldwide faces physical or sexual violence during their lifetime, underscoring the widespread nature of the issue.
The First Lady also drew attention to harmful practices like child marriage and female genital mutilation, which persist in Nigeria and are often defended by cultural or religious norms.
While recognizing the progress made in combating these practices, she noted that many women and girls, particularly in rural and underserved areas, continue to suffer from violence and inequality.
“Many women and girls remain trapped in these cycles of violence and inequality,” she said, urging society to take decisive action.
Reports state that the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, observed annually on November 25, was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1999 to raise awareness about gender-based violence and to mobilize global efforts to address it.
The date was chosen to honor the Mirabal sisters, political activists from the Dominican Republic who were tragically murdered in 1960 under the regime of Rafael Trujillo.
This day marks the start of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, a global campaign that concludes on December 10, International Human Rights Day.
In her statement, the First Lady emphasized the importance of collective action, calling for the timely prosecution of perpetrators, increased support for survivors, and the creation of safer environments for women and girls.
“We must take collective action across all sectors of society,” she urged.
Education was highlighted as a vital tool in breaking these cycles.
“Formal education for the girl child remains the key to liberating them and helping them make informed choices,” she stated, advocating for initiatives that ensure access to education for girls across the country.
Her message resonated widely among stakeholders and advocacy groups. Gender rights advocate Amina Yusuf praised her commitment to education, saying, “Her focus on education aligns with what we’ve seen in communities—empowered girls are better equipped to resist harmful practices.”
Others, like Chidi Nwosu, a legal expert, echoed her call for accountability.
“Prosecution of offenders and justice for survivors must go hand in hand with community-based preventive efforts,” Nwosu noted.
The First Lady concluded with a call to action for all Nigerians to challenge harmful behaviours and work toward a safer society.
“Let us work together to ensure a safer society where everyone, regardless of gender, can live without fear of violence,” she said.