Stakeholders and gender advocates have called for stronger, more coordinated women’s movements as a critical strategy for preventing Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in Nigeria.
The call was made during a webinar hosted by the Women Information Network (WINET) to commemorate International Women’s Day 2026.
The event, themed “Strengthening Women’s Movements: A Strategy for GBV Prevention in Nigeria,” brought together experts and activists who highlighted practical approaches to tackling violence against women through collective action and advocacy.
Delivering the keynote presentation, a former first Lady of Ekiti State and Co-Founder, Amandla Institute for Policy, and Leadership Advancement, Mrs. Erelu Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi spoke on “Movement Building and Organising Towards Prevention of GBV,”
She stressed that women’s movements must adopt what she described as the “Triple A” strategy—Advocacy, Accountability, and Action.
She explained that effective movement building requires a structured focus on seven critical pillars: prevention, access to justice, response, coordination, education, learning, and solidarity.
According to her, these pillars are essential in building a sustainable and impactful movement capable of addressing the root causes of GBV.
Adeleye-Fayemi further emphasized that achieving meaningful results demands resilient organizations, unwavering commitment to feminist values, and stronger collaboration among stakeholders.
She also highlighted the importance of reinforcing government institutions and agencies, noting that multi-stakeholder partnerships are key to driving lasting change.
Social media usefulness
Speaking on “Using Social Media in Modern Movement Building,” the Public Relations Officer, National Council of Women Societies, (NCWS) Nigeria, Dr Ijeoma Udensi, defined movement building as the process of mobilizing people for collective action and influencing social change.
Udensi noted that while social media has not replaced traditional organizing methods, it has significantly expanded the reach, speed, and visibility of movements.
She pointed out that digital platforms have made it easier to convene meetings, share information, and amplify advocacy messages to wider audiences.
However, she cautioned that social media must be used deliberately and strategically to achieve meaningful impact.
“While social media can ignite movements, it is sustained by people’s commitment and continuous engagement. No woman should be left behind in the movement, regardless of background or circumstance.”
Also speaking, the former Convener, Nigeria Civil Society Situation Room, and Country Director ActionAid Nigeria, Comrade Ene Obi, focused on “Inclusive Women’s Movements in Nigeria: GBV Prevention.”
She highlighted the urgent need for intersectional approaches in addressing violence against women.
Obi underscored the importance of inclusive mobilization, noting that one in three women experiences intimate partner violence, with persons with disabilities often disproportionately affected.
“We must adopt principles of inclusivity in movement building, including survivor-centered approaches such as providing shelters, access to counseling services, and support systems for victims.
“Besides, men and boys are partners in the fight against GBV. We must deliberately engage them to boost the campaign.
National GBV Strategy
In her recommendations, Ene called for the adoption of a comprehensive national GBV strategy, the establishment of clear policies within universities, and the strengthening of inclusive women’s movements that prioritize survivors’ needs and voices.
In her closing remarks, the host of the webinar, Mrs. Miriam Menkiti, expressed appreciation to the speakers and participants, urging continued dialogue and collaboration in the fight against GBV.
She noted that sustained engagement and collective effort are crucial to achieving meaningful progress.
Menkiti also acknowledged the support of the Amandla Institute for Policy and Leadership Advancement for funding the initiative, reaffirming WINET’s commitment to advancing gender equality and ending GBV in Nigeria.
She emphasized that while the webinar marked the celebration of International Women’s Day 2026, the organization remains resolute in sustaining advocacy efforts and strengthening women’s movements to combat GBV across the country.
