Enugu First Lady launches 16-day activism against gender-based violence
The First Lady of Enugu State, Nkechinyere Mbah, has launched the global 16-day activism against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in Enugu State.
The campaign, themed “United to End Violence Against Women and Girls,” is part of her grassroots advocacy to combat gender-based violence. The flag-off ceremony took place on Sunday at the headquarters of Igbo-Eze South Local Government Area in Ibagwa Aka.
Mbah called for collective action against gender-based violence, urging society to rise against all forms of abuse. She also pledged her commitment to ensuring the safety and dignity of women in the state.
“We must all stand united to end violence against women and girls. This is a fight for the safety and dignity of all,” she said.
The First Lady of Igbo-Eze South Local Government Area, Empress Ugo-Ferdinand, praised Mbah’s leadership in addressing GBV. She stressed the importance of community involvement and encouraged prompt reporting of abuse.
“We must all recognize that violence is happening around us, and we must be proactive in addressing it. If you notice any form of abuse, do not hesitate to report it; we are here to support you,” Ugo-Ferdinand said.
She also advised parents to keep children safe and engaged with positive activities during the Christmas holidays.
The Zonal Commander of the National Agency for Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Sam Offia, outlined factors contributing to GBV, such as child labor, female genital mutilation (FGM), domestic violence, and harmful traditional practices. Represented by Judith Chinyere, Offia urged women to leave abusive relationships and announced plans to establish human trafficking and GBV vanguards in 50 schools across Enugu State.
Eze Nwanneka, founder of the Girls Growth and Mentorship Initiative, encouraged women and girls to prioritize education and skills acquisition as pathways to empowerment and equality.
