NCWS Launches 16 Days of Activism, Warns Against Rising Digital Violence Targeting Women and Girls
As the world commences the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (25 November – 10 December 2025), the National Council of Women Societies (NCWS) Nigeria stands in solidarity with millions of women and girls across the country and reaffirms its unwavering commitment to ending all forms of violence, especially the rapidly escalating threat of digital violence.
This year’s global theme, “Unite to End Digital Violence Against All Women and Girls,” is a powerful reminder that the safety and dignity of women must be protected not only in homes and communities, but across all digital platforms.
Digital Violence: A Growing Threat to Our Daughters
Digital spaces, once celebrated for expanding opportunities, have now become dangerous grounds where Nigerian women and girls are increasingly attacked, harassed, defamed, bullied, blackmailed, and exploited.
Let it be clear: digital violence is real violence.
It destroys self-esteem, exposes girls to trauma, and in many cases leads to physical harm.
It is a dehumanising attack on the girl child, and Nigeria must not remain silent.
A Call for National Unity and Moral Responsibility
This year, our voice is strengthened by the firm and unreserved backing of religious leaders who recognise that gender-based violence is not only a crime, it is a moral and spiritual violation.
One of Nigeria’s respected Christian leaders,
Rt. Rev. Cletus H. Dading, PhD., Bishop of the Abuja Diocese,
Delivered a compelling message to the nation on the sacred responsibility of protecting women. His words serve as a moral compass in this campaign:
“Violence against women is not merely a social ill; it is a scriptural violation that attacks the very image of the Creator. We are told in Genesis that both male and female were created with inherent, equal dignity in God’s likeness.
While the world is confused about gender, the Church is clear about sin. Colossians 3:19 warns explicitly: ‘Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them.’ Any physical, emotional, or sexual violence is a violent rebellion against that divine order and is totally unacceptable. We cannot claim to uphold righteousness while harbouring abusers in our society.
I call on religious and secular leaders to respectfully consider women as precious gifts that God has given to humanity. Violence against women is a direct attack on our mothers. Anyone who values and respects his or her mother will not only respect women, but will do everything possible to ensure that women are accorded the respect and peace they deserve.”
NCWS acknowledges this powerful spiritual guidance and calls on all religious bodies; Christian, Muslim, and traditional to continue elevating this message of dignity, respect, and protection for every woman and girl.
NCWS Strategic Action Plan for the 16 Days
To address both physical and digital violence, NCWS is rolling out a four-point agenda:
- Community & Digital Literacy Workshops
Training women and girls nationwide on digital hygiene, safe online practices, and how to identify and report digital abuse.
- Legislative & Policy Advocacy
Engaging the National Assembly and the Ministry of Women Affairs to close legal gaps and ensure swift prosecution of digital offenders.
- Technology Sector Accountability
Calling on social media platforms and telecom operators to improve reporting systems, strengthen content moderation, and create safer online environments.
- Support for Survivors
Expanding access to legal aid, psychosocial counselling, and specialised support for victims of online harassment, image abuse, and cyberstalking.
A National Call to Action
As we begin this year’s global campaign, NCWS calls on all Nigerians to unite and stand firm against the dehumanisation of our women and girls:
Government: enforce cybercrime laws without delay.
Technology companies: prioritise the safety of your female users.
Families and communities: stop victim-blaming and safeguard our girls.
Religious and traditional leaders: continue speaking strongly against all forms of abuse.
Civil society: collaborate and scale up awareness.
Survivors: you are not alone—NCWS stands with you.
Our Commitment
NCWS envisions a Nigeria where every woman and girl online or offline. lives free from fear, violence, intimidation, and exploitation.
A Nigeria where digital tools empower, not endanger.
A Nigeria where no girl child is ever dehumanised again.
As these 16 Days of Activism begin, let our voices rise, our actions intensify, and our unity become unbreakable.
In solidarity and hope,
Princess Edna D. D. Azura (Kwatam Mutaku)
National President
National Council of Women Societies (NCWS) Nigeria
