By Paulyn O. Ugbodaga.
It was November 25, a day marked across the globe as a beacon of hope and resistance—the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. For Nigeria, this day carried profound weight, echoing the struggles and resilience of countless women who have endured the shadows of gender-based violence.
In a quiet village, Amara, a young woman with a radiant spirit, prepared for the day with purpose. Just two years ago, she had been a victim of domestic violence.
Her bruises had long faded, but the scars of fear and silence lingered. Yet, Amara had found a new strength through the support of a local women’s organization.
Today, she stood not as a victim, but as a survivor, ready to share her story to inspire change.
Across the nation, the challenges were immense. Harmful traditions like child marriage and female genital mutilation persisted in many communities.
Urban centers weren’t immune; reports of sexual violence, trafficking, and domestic abuse painted a grim picture. The COVID-19 lockdowns had only magnified the crisis, trapping women with their abusers and exposing systemic failings in law enforcement and support systems.
But there was light breaking through. Organizations like Amara’s were creating safe spaces, offering counseling, legal aid, and economic empowerment programs. Activists carried out awareness campaigns, while bold survivors stepped forward to demand enforcement of the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act. Each voice, each action, chipped away at the walls of stigma and impunity.
In Abuja, a vibrant rally unfolded. Amara took the stage, her voice steady, her heart full. She spoke of pain, yes, but also of transformation. She urged the crowd to see that healing wasn’t just for survivors but for the soul of the nation.
Her words sparked a wave of commitment. Communities began organizing workshops to educate men and boys on the importance of respect and equality. Schools included lessons on consent and gender equity in their curricula. Religious and cultural leaders began re-examining traditions that had once been untouchable.
As the day came to a close, Amara stood beneath the evening sky, the air filled with hope. She knew the journey was far from over, but she believed in the power of collective action. Together, Nigeria could rise—a land where every woman walked freely, her dignity intact, her voice heard, and her future bright.
This November 25, the call was clear: healing was possible, but it demanded action. And with every step, Nigeria moved closer to becoming a sanctuary of safety and equality for its daughters, mothers, and sisters.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
