Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has voiced her strong support against gender-based violence, marking the beginning of the 16 Days of Activism against this pervasive issue as a welcomed initiative.
In a statement, the First Lady underscored the importance of formal education for the girl child, which she believes remains the key to empowering girls, helping them make informed decisions, and ultimately breaking the cycle of violence and inequality.
November 25th is recognized globally as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. Remi Tinubu highlighted that gender-based violence continues to be one of the most widespread human rights violations, with nearly one in three women worldwide experiencing physical or sexual violence during their lifetime.
She acknowledged that harmful practices, such as child marriage and female genital mutilation, are still prevalent in Nigeria, often justified by cultural and religious norms. Despite significant progress in some areas, the First Lady noted that many women and girls especially in rural and underserved regions remain trapped in these cycles of violence and discrimination.
In her statement, Remi Tinubu emphasized the need for collective action across all sectors of society. She called for improved reporting, swift prosecution of perpetrators, and enhanced support for victims and survivors. “We must create safer environments for women and girls,” she said.
As Nigeria joins the global campaign, the First Lady encouraged citizens to view the 16 Days of Activism as a call to action. She stressed the importance of challenging harmful behaviors and promoting a culture of respect and safety for all.
“For me, formal education for the girl child remains the key to liberating them and helping them make informed choices,” she concluded. “Let us work together to ensure a safer society where everyone, regardless of gender, can live without fear of violence.”
