Over 30% of Nigerian Women Experience Gender-Based V!olence — Minister of Women Affairs

Over 30% of Nigerian Women Experience Gender-Based V!olence — Minister of Women Affairs

Imagine a world where every woman and girl can walk freely, dream boldly, and live without fear of violence. Sadly, for many in Nigeria, this dream is far from reality. Recent statistics revealed by the Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, show that 30% of Nigerian women aged 15 to 49 have faced physical or sexual violence. This is not just a number; it represents real lives, real tears, and countless untold stories of resilience and pain.

At a media briefing in Abuja, the Minister launched the 2024 “16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence” campaign. Themed “Unite Campaign: Towards Beijing to Prevent Violence Against Women and Girls,” this year’s event reflects on commitments made nearly three decades ago at the Beijing Conference. It reminds us that the fight for gender equality is far from over.

Gender-based violence (GBV) is more than just a personal tragedy; it is a societal crisis that threatens our nation’s development. It doesn’t discriminate—it crosses tribal, religious, and economic boundaries, affecting vulnerable groups the most. Women in conflict zones, girls with disabilities, and those in rural communities often bear the brunt of this inhumanity.

While progress has been made with legislative reforms like the domestication of the Child Rights Act and the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act, laws alone are not enough. Without effective enforcement, the violence continues unchecked. It’s a painful truth that we, as a society, must confront.

But there is hope. The Ministry of Women Affairs, in collaboration with partners, is championing initiatives during the 16-day campaign to shine a light on this dark reality. From sensitization campaigns and school visits to workshops and awareness walks, the message is clear: violence against women and girls must stop. Empowering girls in rural areas and providing support for survivors through the country’s 47 Sexual Assault Referral Centres are crucial steps on the right part.

What stands out is the Minister’s call for a multi-sectoral approach. We must engage men and boys as allies, challenge harmful cultural norms, and educate communities about the value of respect and equality. A newly launched National Electronic Dashboard aims to improve data collection and accountability to ensure that no survivor’s story goes unheard.

As a nation, we have a responsibility to protect our women and girls. Their safety and freedom are non-negotiable. Imagine the Nigeria we could build if every woman and girl thrived—free from violence, fear, and discrimination. The time to act is now. When we stand united against gender-based violence, we are not just protecting lives; we are shaping a better, brighter future for all of us.