“Empowering Women, Empowering Humanity: Breaking the Chains of Gender-Based Violence and Girl Child Issues in Nigeria, Africa, and the World”
Dr. Aiyeku Olufemi Samuel
Global Human Capital & Energy Management
As we celebrate International Women’s Day 2025, we are reminded of the profound words of Malala Yousafzai, “One child, one teacher, one book, one pen can change the world.” Today, we honour the struggles, achievements, and contributions of women and girls around the world while also acknowledging the daunting challenges that still lie ahead.
In Nigeria, Africa, and the world, gender-based violence and girl child issues remain pervasive and entrenched. According to the United Nations, “1 in 3 women worldwide have experienced physical or sexual violence in their lifetime.” In Nigeria, the statistics are equally alarming, with the National Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) reporting that “30% of women aged 15-49 have experienced physical violence.”
The girl child, in particular, faces numerous challenges, including child marriage, female genital mutilation, and limited access to education. As Nelson Mandela once said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” Yet, in Nigeria, millions of girls are denied this fundamental right, perpetuating cycles of poverty, inequality, and violence.
Despite these challenges, there are many notable women in Nigerian society, past and present, who have paved the way for future generations. Women like Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, a pioneering feminist and activist; Hajiya Gambo Sawaba, a fearless politician and women’s rights advocate; and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, a celebrated author and feminist icon.
However, the recent events at the National Assembly have highlighted the persistent challenges faced by women in Nigeria’s political sphere. The altercation between Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and Senator Godswill Akpabio is a stark reminder of the patriarchal norms and power structures that perpetuate inequality and violence against women.
The incident, which occurred at the Red Chamber, has sparked widespread outrage and condemnation. It is unacceptable that in this day and age, women are still subjected to harassment, intimidation, and violence in the highest echelons of power.
So, what can be done to address these pressing issues?
– We must recognize that gender-based violence and girl child issues are not just women’s problems, but societal problems that require collective action.
– We must challenge patriarchal norms and power structures that perpetuate inequality and violence.
– We must invest in education, particularly girls’ education, as a critical tool for empowerment and social change.
– We must support women’s economic empowerment, through initiatives like microfinance, entrepreneurship training, and access to markets.
– We must strengthen laws and policies that protect women’s rights, particularly in areas like violence against women, child marriage, and female genital mutilation.
– We must ensure that these laws are enforced, and that perpetrators are held accountable.
– We must celebrate and amplify the voices of women and girls, particularly those who are marginalized and excluded.
In conclusion, as we celebrate International Women’s Day 2025, let us recommit ourselves to the struggle for gender equality, justice, and human rights. Let us recognize the power and agency of women and girls, and support their efforts to create a more just and equitable world.
As the inimitable Maya Angelou once said, “Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.” Today, let us do better. Let us be better. Let us create a world where women and girls can thrive, free from violence, inequality, and oppression.
Happy International Women’s Day 2025!
