From Edirin Robinson, in Kaduna
In commemoration of the #16 Days of Activism, the Empowering Women for Excellence Initiative (EWEI) organized a walk to campaign and raise awareness among Kaduna residents about the urgent need to speak out and unite against digital violence targeting women and girls.
The event, supported by the Initiative for Gender Equality and Sexual Reproductive Health (IGE-SRH) and Amplify Change, took place along the Sabon Tasha axis in Kaduna South, focusing on educating market sellers about gender-based violence (GBV), its various forms, and the rights of victims against perpetrators. The theme for the event was “Unite to End All Forms of Digital Violence Against Women and Girls.”
During the event, Mr. Uche Brown, the Communication Manager, addressed the media, explaining that such campaigns are a fundamental part of EWEI’s mission to protect the rights and lives of women and girls. The team also introduced a toll-free helpline specifically for GBV reports.
“Our organization’s mandate is to empower women and girls through education. As part of our awareness campaigns, we have come together, with the support of IGE, SRH, and Amplify Change, to say no to all forms of digital violence. It’s time for women to speak out and advocate for change. To facilitate this, we have established the GBV2 toll-free helpline, 08003934000. We firmly believe there is no excuse for online abuse of women and girls,” he stated.
Mr. Uche further explained that, in addition to the toll-free helpline, EWEI offers referral services for victims, which include psychosocial support, access to mental health services, economic assistance, medical care, and legal services, all provided at no cost.
“Alongside the GBV2 toll-free helpline, we have a comprehensive referral pathway involving expert and legal partners who can handle GBV cases. We provide access to psychosocial support, mental health services, and economic benefits for those who report incidents. Additionally, we assist victims with legal support, including access to lawyers and treatment at sexual assault referral centers in Kaduna. We have partnerships in place with these centers and with the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, understanding that GBV significantly impacts the mental and psychological well-being of women and girls,” he explained.
The Communication Manager emphasized the importance of amplifying voices against GBV and called on all stakeholders to ensure that perpetrators are held accountable, regardless of their status or position. “If you commit a violation, you must face the consequences of your actions. We must intensify efforts to ensure that survivors receive timely justice,” he stressed.
EWEI is a Nigerian non-governmental organization (NGO) that focuses on issues such as education, health, and human rights, particularly emphasizing the empowerment of women and girls. The organization provides services including training, psychosocial support for GBV survivors, and community projects aimed at promoting girls’ education and leadership.
