Human Rights Commission addresses critical issues affecting women, girls

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) in Nigeria says it is resolute in its commitment to addressing critical issues affecting the rights of women and girls in the country.

Executive Secretary of the commission Mr. Tony Ojukwu made this known in Abuja while flagging off 16 days of activism against Gender based violence with the theme “Invest o Prevent Violence Against Women And Girls”.

Ojukwu stressed the need for stakeholders to confront the multifaceted challenges facing women and girls in Nigeria.

He said, “this day serves as a poignant reminder of the pressing need to confront and alleviate the multifaceted challenges faced by our women and girls and by extension our society.”

The Human Rights boss explained that the theme focuses on the importance of financing different prevention strategies to end violence against women and girls.

He said, “it is an unequivocal truth that a society that invests in the wellbeing, progress and independence of women reaps immeasurable benefits. 

Our efforts towards fostering an environment that champions and priorities the Rights of women to Reproductive health, education and economic empowerment will lay a foundation for a more equitable and violence free society which empowers women to make informed decisions and choices that benefits them and promote their well-being and rights.”

Ojukwu noted that, to celebrate this year’s 16th day of activism, the Commission has earmarked series of programmes of activities on Human rights issues particularly Rights of women and girls and advocacy visits to key stakeholders.

He added that, the commission will collaboration with partners such as the Office of the First Ladies, NBA, FIDA and CSOs across the 36 states of Nigeria and FCT.

Ojukwu further explained that the Commission in fulfilling its Human rights mandate especially on women and girls, has dedicated a department, which handles only issues of Rights of women and children as well as a toll-free line for reporting GBV complaints.

“The Commission in 2021 established SGBV panels in the geographical region of the country. Currently, the Commission has an ongoing Special investigative Panel for Allegations of mass abortion and SGBV in the North East counter insurgency operations. Recently, the Commission organised a National dialogue to create awareness on the Maputo protocol.”

The Human Rights boss reiterated the commitment of the commission to accelerate the reconvening of the special Panel on SGBV.

He said the commission is committed to work with stakeholders to enhance speedy investigation and resolution of all SGBV cases and complaints.

“Together, let us invest in tools and resources necessary to break the cycle of violence against women and girls and usher in the era of equality, respect and dignity for all.”

The 16days of activism against Gender based violence is an international campaign that takes place every year, commencing from 25 November, which is the international day for the Elimination of violence against women and ends on 10th December.