The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence is an international campaign that runs annually from November 25th, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, to December 10th, Human Rights Day. This period symbolically links violence against women and human rights, emphasizing that such violence is a violation of human rights. Gender-based violence is a pervasive issue that affects individuals globally. According to the 2018 National Demographic Health Survey (NDHS), 33% of women aged 15-49 in Nigeria have experienced physical or sexual violence; 24% have experienced only physical violence, 2% have experienced only sexual violence, while 7% have experienced both physical and sexual violence.

A webinar was held under ‘Our Daughters Project’ which is a programme area in ICCEF coordinated by Innocent’s three daughters with a focus on girls and women in three professions which reflect their own chosen professions – law, media and technology.

On the 7^th of December 2023, in commemoration of 16 days of activism, ICCEF held the webinar to discuss critical issues that are relevant to preventing violence against women and girls as well as various legal frameworks and support services that exist in line with this year’s theme “UNITE! Invest to prevent violence against women and girls”

The webinar delved into the critical issue of Sexual & Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) in Nigeria. The event enlightened participants on existing laws, policies, and available support services, contributing to the broader effort to combat gender-based violence and prevent violence against women and girls (VAWG).

Webinar had over 40 people attendance including young people, women and women’s rights activists from different parts of the country.

The Executive Chair of ICCEF, Josephine Effah-Chukwuma, gave detailed history of the 16 days of activism and also highlighted the roles of key stakeholders in preventing VAWG.The webinar featured two distinguished speakers who brought their expertise to the forefront. Dr Abiola Akiyode-Afolabi spoke on ‘SGBV IN NIGERIA: LAWS AND POLICIES’. The session highlighted significant laws, including the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act 2015 and the Criminal Code and the penal code. She also discussed SGBV Policies in Nigeria such as the National Gender Policy which includes provisions related to violence against women as well as National Policy on Women which also addresses issues related to violence against women and seeks to promote gender equality and women’s empowerment. Dr. Abiola Akiyode-Afolabi emphasized the importance of implementation, enforcement, and the role of advocacy groups. The next session had Dr. Princess Olufemi-Kayode speak on ‘Sexual & Gender-Based Violence in Nigeria: Available Support Services. Dr Princess Olufemi-Kayode shed light on various support services available in Nigeria such as the state actors which include Ministries, Departments, Agencies, Hospitals, Primary HealthCare Centers(PHCs), Sexual Assaults Referral Centers (SARCs) Law Enforcement and non-state actors which include NGOs, CBOs, Rape Crisis Centers, Child Protection networks, Child Advocacy Center and Community surveillance teams, emphasizing the vital role of institutions, including government social services, the police, and civil society organizations. Participants provided positive feedback, expressing appreciation for the simplified presentation of laws and policies. Some highlighted the importance of active engagement in addressing SGBV for its eventual eradication from society.

Here are some participants’ feedback;

Anita (YADi) – I thank ICCEF and the facilitators for not holding back on these issues.

“It’s good to know that efforts are being heightened to curb SGBV/GBV in Nigeria especially with the VAPP. I like the way facilitators simplified the provisions of the existing laws such as in the area of rape. I see it as capacity building for further engagement.”

Irene – I appreciate ICCEF for this initiative, it was an amazing session. I want to commend all our efforts.

Nkiru – Innocent is somebody we all miss. Nigeria seems to be unchanging but we cannot give up. I commend your efforts, please continue the good work. Opportunities like this, when they come, one shouldn’t miss them.

The webinar successfully addressed critical aspects of SGBV, offering participants valuable insights into laws, policies, and support services. The event’s success underscores the commitment to raising awareness and fostering dialogue on this crucial issue.