ActionAid Nigeria (AAN) successfully hosted a one-day National Dialogue on November 29, 2023, at The Palms Hotel by Tropical Galleria Abuja, commemorating the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence. This event, organized in collaboration with partners under the Women’s Voice and Leadership Nigeria project (WVL-N), funded by Global Affairs Canada (GAC), was aimed at fostering dialogue and collaboration among stakeholders to address violence against women and girls in Nigeria.
Highlights from the Event:
The National Dialogue brought together a diverse audience, including the Country Director of ActionAid Nigeria, Andrew Mamedu, the Hon. Minister of the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, representatives from State Ministries of Women Affairs, Budget and Planning, the National Human Rights Commission, Ministry of Justice, Traditional leaders, ActionAid Nigeria staff, community women, and various partners at both national and state levels.
Addressing the Urgency:
The dialogue highlighted the urgent need for collective action to address the alarming rates of violence against women and girls in Nigeria. Shocking statistics revealed that almost one in three women aged 15-49 has experienced physical violence, emphasizing the necessity to unite and invest in preventing such violence. The 16 Days of Activism served as a pivotal moment for galvanizing efforts to end all forms of violence against women and girls.
Strategic Collaboration and Impactful Initiatives:
ActionAid Nigeria showcased its commitment to combating gender-based violence through strategic collaboration and impactful initiatives. The Women’s Voice and Leadership Nigeria project (WVL-N), the largest grant in Nigeria funded by GAC, has redefined donor funding. Over 150 women’s rights organizations partnered with ActionAid Nigeria, accessing funds with flexibility to implement their core mandates. The project has impacted 7.1 million women, girls, and families across the country, supporting 19,011 women in establishing businesses and empowering 136 women to become members of traditional cabinet councils.
A Call for Donor Organizations to Join the Cause:
The Country Director emphasized the need for more Donor Organizations to join ActionAid Nigeria in the fight against gender inequality and the advancement of women’s rights. He emphasizes on the need for more Donor Organizations to key into the progression of ActionAid Nigeria in fighting gender inequality and advancing Women’s rights.”
Appreciation and Gratitude:
ActionAid Nigeria expressed sincere appreciation to Global Affairs Canada for their generous funding that has empowered numerous women-led organizations in Nigeria. The impact of this funding extends beyond numbers, touching the lives of individuals, families, and communities across the six geo-political zones.
As we reflect on the success of the National Dialogue, ActionAid Nigeria remains committed to its vision of a world without poverty and injustice, where every person enjoys their right to life with dignity. The fight against gender-based violence continues, and the organization calls on all stakeholders, including government agencies, civil society organizations, the private sector, and individuals, to unite and invest in preventing violence against women and girls.
