The wife of the Governor of Anambra State, Dr Nonye Soludo has called for sustained collective action, practical solutions, and stronger social systems to eliminate gender-based violence (GBV) in Nigeria and around the World.
Mrs Soludo, who is founder of the Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo Initiative, delivered the message in a statement marking the 2025 International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women on 25 November.
The day also begins the annual 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, which runs until 10 December, Human Rights Day.
She stressed that efforts to end GBV must move beyond symbolic gestures, saying the global campaign “demands more than words or hashtags.”
According to her, meaningful progress requires decisive measures, narrative change, and a stronger commitment to protecting women and girls in every sphere of society.
The Governor’s wife said; “In a world where many women and girls still feel unsafe within institutions designed to nurture and support them, we must move beyond rhetoric to real action.
“Eliminating gender-based discrimination is everyone’s responsibility, at home, in schools, workplaces, places of worship, and everywhere human relationships exist. Every woman deserves to be valued, protected, and empowered to flourish.”
Empowering Women
Mrs. Soludo underscored the importance of empowering women and girls through quality education, accessible healthcare, employment creation, and strengthened social institutions.
These interventions, she said, “are critical to preventing violence and ensuring equal opportunities.”
A key part of the campaign, she noted, is breaking the culture of silence surrounding abuse.
Mrs. Soludo urged survivors and communities to speak out, report incidents to appropriate authorities, and support victims seeking help.
The First Lady explained that ”the administration of Governor Chukwuma Soludo has recognised these challenges and is implementing transformative policies aimed at improving safety, inclusion, and opportunity for women and girls across Anambra State.”
“It is truly time to find practical solutions and change the narrative for good,” she said, reaffirming that GBV can be eradicated if the right concerns are raised and decisive measures are taken.
Confidence Okwuchi