The Ondo State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development has rolled out a comprehensive programme to commemorate the 2025 global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, with a special focus on the theme: “Ending Digital Violence Against Women and Girls.”
At a press conference held today in Akure, the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Dr. Seun Osamaye, officially unveiled the activities for this year’s campaign.
She raised deep concern over the rising cases of online harassment, cyberstalking, revenge pornography, and other forms of digital abuse targeting women and girls across the state.
Dr. Osamaye emphasised that technology should serve as a tool for empowerment, not a source of harm.
She noted that the government is spotlighting digital violence because it remains “silent, pervasive, and often overlooked,” stressing that the fight against gender-based violence will remain incomplete without addressing online forms of abuse.
The 16-day activism running from 25th November (International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women) to 10th December 2025 features a lineup of impactful activities aimed at expanding awareness, strengthening response mechanisms, and promoting collective responsibility.
According to the commissioner the Key highlights include of the activities are Official flag-off, press briefing and symbolic “Orange the World” illumination at the Ministry on November 25th,2025
Nov 26: Awareness walk and roadshow across major streets of Akure
Nov 29: Training for law enforcement officers and first responders; school and youth sensitisation on consent, cyberbullying, and online safety
Dec 1: Engagement with the Men and Boys Forum under the HeForShe initiative
Dec 3: Free legal clinic in partnership with the Ministry of Justice, NBA, and FIDA
Dec 8: Statewide social media marathon and release of short documentaries on digital GBV
Dec 10: Grand closing ceremony featuring awards, cultural displays, and the release of a GBV Action Plan communiqué
Dr. Osamaye further stated that this year’s campaign will prioritise inclusion, with dedicated programmes for persons with disabilities, rural dwellers, market women, and survivors requiring medical, psychosocial, or economic support.
The Ministry is working in collaboration with critical partners including the Ministries of Health and Justice, Nigeria Police, NSCDC, UNFPA, UNICEF, civil society organisations, traditional institutions, media houses, and disability groups to ensure statewide reach and impact.
She urged residents of Ondo State to join the fight against all forms of gender-based violence, both online and offline, to build a safer and more inclusive society.
Dr Osamaye said the wife of the governor ,Mrs Oluwaseun Aiyedatiwa will lead the advocacy on Monday, 1st December 2025
Also speaking the Chief Executive of ROTDOW, Mrs Olabisi Omolona said that the civil society organization in Ondo state appreciated the support of the commissioner and ministry of women Affairs for its commitment to promoting gender justice and stand against GBV.
Other Stakeholders present at the briefing, including officials of the Ministry, representatives of the Ondo State Agency Against Gender-Based Violence, women-focused NGOs, female appointees, development partners, and community leaders, commended the state government for demonstrating strong political will in the fight against GBV
They warned that gender-based violence, especially in its digital form, is becoming more rampant as more young people gain access to smartphones and social media platforms.
According to them, combating the menace requires a combination of moral upbringing, community engagement, continuous sensitisation, and prompt reporting of cases.
They also applauded the government for expanding empowerment initiatives for women and urged survivors and their families to speak up and seek help rather than suffer in silence.
The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence is an annual global campaign supported by the United Nations, governments, and civil society groups across more than 187 countries. It seeks to raise awareness and inspire action to end violence in all its forms.
Ondo State’s participation, stakeholders said, reinforces Nigeria’s commitment to global efforts aimed at promoting safety, dignity, and equal rights for women and girls in the digital age.
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