Abuja ------------- The National Council for Women Societies, NCWS, has commenced a nationwide campaign to upscale advocacy against rape, sexual and Gender-Based Violence Against Women and Girls, SGBVAWG, the National President of the council, Hajiya Lami Adamu-Lau, has said.

Adamu-Lau spoke at a news conference/Media parley as part of activities lined up to mark the 16 days of activities to end this year's VAWG, with the theme, “Unite! Activism to End Violence Against Women and Girls.”

Adamu-Lau said violence against women was deeply rooted in gender inequality.

According to her, this calls for the need to support women inclusion, and push for the elimination of all forms of violence against women/girls. through education, mobilisation and empowerment.

Her words, “Collectively, we can do more to show solidarity to women in distress and survivors of GBV.

“Nigerian women are concerned about the growing insecurity challenges which increases the number of women and girls in distress and vulnerable to abuse.

” We challenge oppressive practices and human rights violation.

” We demand improved respect for the human rights of women and girls; and the advancement of gender equality in Nigeria." 

According to her, the council as at April, 2022 received mostly from Internally Displaced Persons Camps (IDPs), 137 reported cases of rape and GBV, out of which 43 cases were under prosecution.

Adamu- Lau further said that at the end of the 16 days of activism, Nigerian women would come out with a communiqué that would outline practical actions towards achieving a nation with zero tolerance for GBV.