The First Lady of Zamfara State, Hajiya Huriyya Dauda Lawal, has officially flagged off the 2025 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), with a strong call for united action to end violence in both physical and digital spaces.
Speaking at the ceremony, which held at Government House Gusau, she described gender-based violence as a growing threat to societal wellbeing and development.
Hajiya expressed concerned that, digital platforms that meant for connection and learning, have turned into tools for harassment, cyberbullying, blackmail, and exploitation.
She stressed that, digital violence must be taken as seriously as physical violence.
“Our phones and social media platforms have become extensions of our lives, but unfortunately, they are increasingly used as weapons of abuse. We must protect our people in both physical and digital spaces,” she emphasized.
Hajiya Huriyya reaffirmed her commitment to ensuring that, women, girls, men, and children in Zamfara State live free from fear. She also commended Governor Dauda Lawal for strengthening social protection systems, access to justice, community safety, and healthcare services.
She stated that this year’s campaign focuses on concrete action, including stronger law enforcement, improved access to justice, collaboration with security agencies, expansion of safe spaces, counselling services, and intensified public awareness on digital safety.
“Silence is no longer an option. Fear is no longer a barrier. Violence, whether physical or digital, will no longer be tolerated,” she said, calling on citizens to speak up and support survivors"
The First Lady urged traditional leaders, religious institutions, civil society, journalists, youth groups, and security agencies to work collectively in ending GBV.
She said this year’s theme, Unite, End Digital Violence Against Women and Girls, highlighted a critical reality that online abuse causes real psychological, emotional, and social harm.
Also speaking, the Zamfara State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Aisha Anka, welcomed participants and reaffirmed the state government’s dedication to protecting the dignity, safety, and rights of all citizens and described GBV as a major barrier to family stability, community development, and social progress.
The Commissioner said Zamfara state is working closely with UN agencies, civil society groups, and security institutions to strengthen prevention and response efforts.
In his remarks, the Community Engagement Officer of the International Rescue Committee (IRC), Audu Musa Wakirwa, commended the Zamfara State Government and the Office of the First Lady for creating an enabling environment for humanitarian partners to operate effectively.
He emphasized that, the fight against GBV requires daily commitment, not just 16 days of awareness.
