The National Human Rights Commission in collaboration with Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption has concluded plans to join the global community in observing the “16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence” campaign.
The programme, which started from November 25, 2024, will come to an end by December 10, 2024.
Speaking during a press conference for the campaign, Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission, Dr Tony Ojukwu SAN, emphasized the significance of this year’s theme, “Equality – Reducing Inequality and Advancing Human Rights,” highlighting its importance as a reminder and a call to action to reaffirm our collective commitment to protecting the rights of every individual in Nigeria and beyond.
He said the programme calls for the attention, collaboration and investment of key stakeholders like the media, faith-based organisations, human rights actors, students unions, women associations and security agencies to restrategise in stemming the tide against violence on women.
Ojukwu said the International Human Rights Day serves as an opportunity to reflect on the progress we have made as a nation in advancing the fundamental rights as enshrined in the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and other international human rights instruments to which Nigeria is a party.
“It also challenges us to confront the gaps and obstacles that continue to hinder the full realization of these rights.
“For this year’s commemoration and as usual, the National Human Rights Commission and its partners have lined up series of impactful programs and initiatives designed to amplify the voices of the marginalized, promote accountability, and foster a deeper understanding of human rights among all stakeholders.
“These activities are designed to raise awareness, foster dialogue, and inspire action toward addressing inequalities and advancing human rights across Nigeria,’ he said.
The event was organised in partnership with the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC), funded by the European Union and implemented by International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA).
This year’s campaign is particularly crucial in Nigeria, where gender-based violence remains a pervasive issue. Last week, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) said it received 427,606 complaints of human rights violations in October 2024 from its 38 offices across the country.
According to UN, Women, nearly one in three women experience violence in their lifetime, and girls are at particular risk of violence, with one in four adolescent girls being abused by their partners.
The “16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence” is an annual international campaign that launches on November 25, aiming to amplify advocacy against all forms of violence, discrimination, and human rights abuses, particularly sexual violence against women and girls. It concludes on December 10, observed as International Human Rights Day.
Since 2019, RoLAC has been at the forefront of targeted advocacy, public sensitization, and learning events during the 16 Days of Activism. Collaborating with various government agencies, civil society organizations, media partners, and influencers from the entertainment industry, these initiatives have made a tangible impact, evidenced by the establishment of SGBV courts in the FCT in 2021 and the replication of Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs) across the country.
