NGO Urges Nigerian Leaders to End Harmful Acts Against Women

A Nigerian non-governmental organization is calling on traditional rulers, religious leaders, and community stakeholders to intensify efforts against harmful cultural practices that violate the rights of women and girls. The Centre for Women’s Health and Information (CEWHIN) made the appeal during a town hall meeting in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, aimed at preventing violence against women and girls.

The organization highlighted persistent cases of violence, discrimination, and inhumane treatment against women, often justified by culture and tradition, which have severe social and psychological consequences. This campaign marks the second year CEWHIN has worked to end violence against women and girls in the state, with support from the Ford Foundation.

Participants at the meeting identified harmful cultural practices, poverty, ignorance, and poor access to education as major factors fueling violence. They emphasized the need for collective action to challenge belief systems that perpetuate discrimination and deny women their fundamental rights. "We need to break through the walls built by harmful belief systems that continue to disregard the dignity and rights of women and girls in our society," stated one participant. They stressed that beyond legislation, stronger political will, community ownership, and sustained advocacy are crucial.

Stakeholders examined socialization patterns and cultural norms contributing to gender-based violence and identified barriers to effective prevention. They proposed community-driven solutions, recognizing that traditional rulers and faith leaders are critical agents for promoting positive social values and gender equality. The consensus was that laws alone are insufficient; sustained sensitization campaigns targeting traditional and religious institutions, as well as youth, are necessary. Empowering community chiefs and faith leaders to champion positive cultural values and redefine harmful narratives was also advocated.

“

We need to break through the walls built by harmful belief systems that continue to disregard the dignity and rights of women and girls in our society.