Dr. Nesreen El-Nolla, UN Women’s Deputy Representative, called for heightened efforts to combat gender-based violence (GBV) during the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence event in Abuja. The event, organized in collaboration with the Magdala Unity Foundation (MUF), was themed “UNiTE to Eliminate Violence Against Women.”
Dr. El-Nolla highlighted the alarming prevalence of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) in Nigeria, stating that one in every three women in the country suffers from some form of violence, with many cases going unreported. She acknowledged the progress made, such as the domestication of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act, but stressed that more needs to be done to end violence against women.
She also emphasized the importance of traditional and religious leaders, as well as male allies, in advocating for and protecting the rights of women and girls. Ambassador Victoria Bola Ihesiulor, President of Magdala Unity Foundation, echoed Dr. El-Nolla’s call, noting that the event sought to break down the barriers that prevent women and girls from reaching their full potential.
Ihesiulor also pointed out that women continue to face systemic inequalities, limited political participation, and the ongoing scourge of GBV. She highlighted that children, too, are victims of various forms of abuse, including psychological, emotional, and physical violence.
The workshop aimed to deepen participants’ understanding of SGBV, address its root causes, and promote sustainable solutions, focusing on legal frameworks to combat violence.
