The government of Plateau State in north central Nigeria has begun a major public sensitisation campaign aimed at reducing gender-based violence across the state. The initiative is part of the globally recognised “16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence,” an annual international movement observed from November 25 to December 10 to highlight the rights of women and girls.
The campaign opened on Tuesday with a symbolic procession that moved from the Old Airport Roundabout to the Secretariat Junction in Jos, the capital city of Plateau State. The march drew residents, civil society organisations, human rights advocates, and government officials. Okay News reports that the procession set the tone for the broader programme, which was formally launched at the Rayfield Government House by the wife of the Plateau State Governor, Mrs. Helene Mutfwang.
During the programme, the Plateau State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Caroline Dafur, called for urgent collective efforts to eliminate violence against women and girls. She explained that gender-based violence has remained a major barrier to national progress.
“Gender-based violence is a menace that affects us all, and it is time we stood up to say enough is enough. We must work together to create a society where women and girls can live without fear of violence and exploitation,” Dafur stated.
Representatives from national institutions were also present at the event. The National Human Rights Commission of Nigeria, the federal agency responsible for promoting and safeguarding human rights across the country, expressed its commitment to advancing the protection of women and girls. Speaking on behalf of the commission, Mrs. Kiyenpiya Mafuyai emphasised their ongoing human rights interventions.
“We are committed to ensuring that the rights of women and girls are protected and promoted. We will continue to work with government agencies and civil society organisations to prevent gender-based violence and provide support to survivors,” she said.
Education-focused organisations also stressed the importance of awareness and prevention. The Regional Director of SPRiNG, Mrs. Mujidang Sitdang, highlighted the long-term benefits of education in ending abuse.
“Education is key to preventing gender-based violence. We must educate our children, our communities, and our leaders on the importance of respecting the rights of women and girls,” Sitdang stated.
Civil society groups added their voices to the demand for justice. Mrs. Dung John Hwyere, the Programme Officer of Women for Positive Peace-building Initiative, urged communities and authorities to ensure accountability for offenders.
“We must hold perpetrators accountable for their actions,” Hwyere said. “We must ensure that justice is served and that survivors get the support they need to rebuild their lives,” she added.
Also speaking at the event, Mrs. Justina Ngwobia, representing Women for Positive Peace-building Initiative, called for a cultural transformation in attitudes towards women.
“We must change the narrative and promote a culture of respect and dignity for all,” she said. “We must recognise the value and worth of women and girls and work towards creating a society that is just and equitable for all.”
The event concluded with renewed commitments from government agencies, activists, and community leaders to champion a safer and more equitable society for women and girls throughout Plateau State and Nigeria at large.
