Senator Oluremi Tinubu, the First Lady, has called for immediate action to eliminate gender-based violence as she participates in the global observance of International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.
The International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, observed annually on November 25, was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1999 to raise awareness of gender-based violence and mobilize global efforts to combat it.
Her letter, shared on X on Monday, kicked off the annual 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.
“Nearly one in every three women worldwide experiences physical or sexual violence in their lifetime,” she remarked, emphasizing the terrible extent of the problem.
She also highlighted the pervasiveness of harmful practices in Nigeria, such as child marriage and female genital mutilation, which are frequently excused by cultural or religious beliefs.
While acknowledging advances in addressing these challenges, she emphasized that many women and girls, particularly in rural and impoverished communities, are still stuck in cycles of violence and inequity.
“Many women and girls remain trapped in these cycles of violence and inequality,” she said, urging society to act decisively.
Meanwhile, in her statement, the First Lady emphasized the necessity of collaborative action, including speedy prosecution of abusers, enhanced support for survivors, and the creation of safer settings.
