To raise awareness on the effects of Gender-Based Violence (GBV), Sterling One Foundation, in collaboration with Live Abundantly and the Deputy British High Commissioner to Nigeria, recently gathered for the screening of ‘Chatroom’ focused on the issue.

This was in line with the 2023 edition of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign, a yearly United Nations initiative held from November 25 to December 10 (International Human Rights Day) aimed at eradicating violence against women.
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At the film screening of ‘Chatroom’ produced by the Chief Executive Officer of Sterling One Foundation, Mrs. Olapeju Ibekwe, said, “statistics show that one in three women and one in six boys have experienced violations.”

She emphasised the urgent need to eliminate gender-based violence, calling for advocacy and action from individuals, private sector players and development organisations to find solutions to the pervasive issue.

She added that it was important to escalate discussions on GBV to the living rooms of the citizenry.

The Deputy British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr. Jonny Baxter, in his goodwill message, stressed the importance of legislative measures to protect human rights, urging collaboration between the government and the public.

Founder of Live Abundantly, Dr. Ama Onyerinma, observed that available statistics may not fully capture the reality of GBV due to underreporting, adding that there was a need for people to use their voices to amplify awareness about it.

She noted that when GBV is not reported, there can be no social justice for victims, no better awareness, no protection and no advocacy.

Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, affirmed the state’s intolerance of GBV, citing the establishment of the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) as part of its commitment to tackling the issue under the THEMES Agenda of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

On his part, Dr. Adewale Oyerinde of the Nigeria Employers Consultative Association highlighted the multi-dimensional nature of the issue and outlined efforts by the private sector to ensure the safety and protection of their workforce.

Pearl Uzokwe of the Malala Fund in Nigeria commended the multi-sectoral partners that gathered at the event.

She added that all citizens have a part to play, commending the sustained efforts of the Lagos State Government in prioritising the elimination of GBV.
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