The National Council for Women’s Societies (NCWS), an umbrella body of all women groups and associations in Nigeria, has demanded improved respect for the human rights of women and girls in the country.
National President of the Council, Hajiya Lami Adamu Lau, made the demand in Abuja on Saturday while briefing the press as part of activities to commemorate the 16 days Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) with theme: “UniTE! Activism to end Gender-Based Violence against Women and Girls”
Hajiya Lau reiterated the council’s call for the advancement of gender equality in Nigeria, noting that Violence against women is deeply rooted in gender inequality, and continues to be one of the most notable human rights violations within all societies.
She also expressed concerns about the growing insecurity challenges, saying this has increased the number of women and girls in distress making them vulnerable to abuse.
She stated that Gender Based Violence has become a widespread global phenomenon, with about 243 million women and girls facing gender related abuses according to a recent UN statistic.
She therefore assured that the Council is committed to supporting women inclusion, protection of the rights of women and children, and the elimination of all forms of violence against women/girls.
“GBV involves all forms of violence directed against a person because of their gender. Both women and men experience GBV but the majority of victims are women and girls.
“We challenge oppressive practices and human rights violation. We demand improved respect for the human rights of women and girls; and the advancement of gender equality in Nigeria,” She stated.
“At the end of the 16 days of activism 2022, Nigerian women will come out with a communiqué that shall outline very practical actions towards achieving a Nation with zero tolerance for gender-based violence,” she added.
