The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Gombe State, on Thursday convened a strategic multi-stakeholder meeting at the Federal Secretariat as part of preparations for the 2025 global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.
The meeting brought together representatives from the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), the media, security agencies, and other relevant partners.
Speaking during the engagement, Ndam Nafan Fabong, representing the NHRC Gombe State Coordinator, underscored the critical role of collective action in tackling Gender-Based Violence (GBV), especially digital violence targeted at women and girls.
Fabong noted that this year’s theme aligns with growing concerns over the increasing use of online platforms to harass, exploit, and intimidate women and young girls. He stressed the need for sustained advocacy and preventive measures.
According to him, the Commission has outlined a series of activities designed to raise awareness and strengthen community response mechanisms. These include school sensitisation programmes, awareness campaigns in health facilities, and advocacy visits to traditional rulers, religious leaders, and key government institutions.
Fabong said, “We urge all stakeholders to work together to prevent Sexual and Gender-Based Violence and promote the rights of women and children. We must avoid practices that perpetuate violence and discrimination against women and girls and instead create an enabling environment for them to thrive.”
He added that beyond creating awareness, the Commission would continue to advocate for the effective implementation of existing laws and policies aimed at protecting the rights of vulnerable groups in the state.
Participants at the meeting also shared insights on challenges faced in GBV prevention and response, highlighting the need for improved reporting channels, greater community involvement, and stronger legal frameworks to deter perpetrators.
Representatives from FIDA and the NBA reaffirmed their commitment to providing legal support for survivors, while CSOs called for increased funding and grassroots engagement to sustain the momentum of the campaign.
The 16 Days of Activism activities in Gombe State are expected to culminate in the presentation of a comprehensive communiqué to Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya on December 8, 2025. The communiqué will outline key recommendations, commitments, and areas requiring urgent government intervention.
The NHRC emphasised that the fight against SGBV requires continuous collaboration among all actors, noting that Gombe State has the potential to serve as a model for other states in addressing the issue holistically.
