The First Lady of Zamfara State, Hajiya Huriyya Dauda Lawal, has officially commenced the 2025 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), marking a significant step in the state's fight to protect women from all forms of abuse.
A Unified Front Against GBV
Organized by the Office of the Zamfara State First Lady in partnership with the State Ministry for Women, Children and Social Development Affairs, the event underscores a collaborative effort to eradicate violence. Hajiya Huriyya Dauda Lawal described gender-based violence as a profound threat to social well-being and development, emphasizing the urgent need for a collective movement focused on unity, action, and accountability.
She outlined the priorities for this year's campaign, which include strengthening the enforcement of laws that protect survivors and supporting access to justice for victims of both online and offline abuse.
Combating Digital Violence and Harmful Practices
The First Lady highlighted that this year's theme powerfully reminds everyone that "Digital violence is real violence." She called for robust collaboration with security agencies to protect communities, expand safe spaces, and provide psychosocial support and counselling.
Her appeal also extended to promoting digital safety and responsible online behaviour, encouraging the reporting of cybercrimes, and putting an end to stigma, silence, and harmful cultural practices. She asserted that this fight requires the involvement of everyone, including government, traditional rulers, religious leaders, law enforcement, educators, NGOs, journalists, market women, and youth groups.
Addressing the youth directly, she urged them, as the digital generation, to use their voices to build, not to tear down. "Use technology for innovation, not intimidation. Respect is your responsibility online and offline," she advised.
Government and Ministry Commitment
In a show of solidarity, the Zamfara State Commissioner for the Ministry of Women, Children and Social Development Affairs, Dr. Aisha MZ Anka Dr. Anka reaffirmed her ministry's dedication to working closely with the Office of the First Lady to end all forms of violence against vulnerable groups, both offline and online. She revealed that many GBV-related cases have been resolved through strong collaboration with the First Lady's office and independent partners. She praised the present administration under Governor Dr. Dauda Lawal for its active collaboration with committed non-governmental organizations, a contrast to previous governments. The commissioner also acknowledged the governor for providing the necessary support for the ministry to function effectively. Looking forward, Dr. Anka stated that the ministry will intensify its efforts through door-to-door sensitisation campaigns and various media programmes to achieve its objectives. She encouraged residents not to conceal any GBV cases and urged parents to monitor their children closely.
