Nigerian Men Called to Action in GBV Fight
In a powerful address during the 2025 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, the FAME Foundation has issued a compelling challenge to Nigerian men: become active allies in the fight against gender-based violence. The foundation's executive leadership made this urgent appeal during a press conference that highlighted their ongoing commitment to supporting survivors and combating GBV nationwide.
Foundation's Year-Round Commitment
Arabinrin Aderonke Atoyebi, the Executive Director of FAME Foundation, emphasized that their anti-GBV efforts extend far beyond the 16-day campaign period. "It's not just about the 16 days; this is our daily work," Atoyebi stated, underscoring the foundation's continuous dedication to providing assistance and justice for GBV survivors.
The foundation has strengthened its impact through strategic partnerships, particularly with NAPTIP (National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons). This collaboration has already yielded significant results, leading to the arrest of men involved in gender-based violence cases. FAME Foundation's in-house legal team actively follows up on these cases in courtrooms across Nigeria.
Addressing Modern Forms of Violence
Aligning with the United Nations' global theme for this year's activism, Aderonke highlighted the growing concern of digital violence. "We need to fight digital and cyberstalking," she urged, pointing to the evolving nature of gender-based violence in the digital age.
Kemisola Ibitoye, Director of Programs at FAME Foundation, presented concerning findings about the origins of GBV. According to Ibitoye's research, many instances of gender-based violence stem from those closest to the victims, including intimate partners and family members.
Tracking and Preventing Femicide
The foundation's Femicide Tracker, launched last year, continues to monitor and report GBV cases to ensure they receive proper attention and intervention. This tool represents a crucial step in documenting and addressing the most extreme forms of gender-based violence.
Ibitoye made a direct appeal to Nigerian men, emphasizing the critical need for their vocal support. "We need more men to speak out. It's not enough for women to speak out; we need men as partners in this fight," she stated passionately.
Root Causes and Early Intervention
When questioned about the underlying causes of GBV, Aderonke responded with candor, stating, "It's unfair to ask why. We are dealing with mentalities shaped by society and upbringing." She stressed the importance of early education for boys and men about respecting women and combating harmful behaviors before they become ingrained.
"Men need to step up and be allies, not just silent bystanders," Aderonke concluded, reinforcing the necessity for a fundamental societal shift in how both genders address and prevent gender-based violence.
As the 16 Days of Activism campaign progresses, FAME Foundation continues to advocate for justice, healing, and meaningful societal transformation. The foundation remains committed to fostering critical dialogues around the essential role men must play in collective action to eliminate gender-based violence from Nigerian society.
