By: Ahmed Rufa’i
The Rule of Law and Empowerment Initiative, also known as Partners West Africa–Nigeria (PWAN), has unveiled its 2025 “16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence” campaign with a focus on ending digital violence against women and girls.
In a statement by its Communications Officer, Ogechukwu Holly Mohanye, the women-led organisation said the campaign adopts the global theme: “UNiTE to End Digital Violence Against All Women and Girls.
”PWAN said the rise of digital platforms has exposed women and girls to new forms of abuse, including cyberbullying, online harassment, blackmail, sextortion, identity theft and deepfake manipulation—threats it noted are often ignored despite their growing impact.
The 2025 campaign, scheduled for November 25 to December 10, will intensify advocacy efforts, raise public awareness, and promote accountability systems that protect women and girls online.
The period coincides with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and ends on Human Rights Day.
PWAN announced that it will roll out national and state-level activities across its offices in Abuja, Borno, Niger, Kaduna, Katsina, Plateau and Kebbi.
The programmes include leadership and community training for traditional and religious leaders, women groups, and local structures to strengthen response to digital abuse.Other activities include a national webinar on digital education for girls, legal awareness sessions on the Cybercrime Act and the VAPP Act, school sensitisation campaigns, and extensive online and media advocacy on human rights and digital safety.
The campaign will climax on December 10 with a digital rally and a nationwide call urging Nigerians to commit to safer online spaces for women and girls.
PWAN reaffirmed its commitment to advancing gender equality, promoting justice, enhancing citizen participation, and ensuring that technology empowers rather than harms.
The group stressed that all individuals, including Persons with Disabilities, deserve freedom from fear and violence both offline and online.
