By our correspondant
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), have called for urgent and collective action to end violence against women and girls across the country.
The workers organisations made the call when they led a coalition of civil society organisations to the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs in Abuja.
The rally, which marked the close of the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, drew women leaders from labour unions, activists, and rights advocates, who converged on the ministry to highlight the growing threats facing women in digital spaces, schools, workplaces, and communities.
Speaking through a joint statement, the Chairpersons of the TUC Women’s Commission, Esther Asabe Amadu, and the NLC Women’s Commission, Deborah Yusuf, said violence against women had taken new and dangerous dimensions, particularly online, where cyberstalking, harassment, doxxing, and the non-consensual sharing of intimate images were becoming widespread.
They warned that the anonymity of the internet had emboldened perpetrators, noting that the psychological trauma associated with digital violence could be as damaging as physical abuse.
The labour leaders called on the Federal Government, technology companies, regulators, and communities to take responsibility by strengthening laws, enforcing existing regulations, holding digital platforms accountable, and expanding public education on digital rights and protection.
Beyond digital abuse, the unions also raised concerns over the increasing abductions of girls from schools and attacks in places of worship, describing them as gross violations of human rights that threaten the safety of families and the future of the nation.
They urged the government and security agencies to strengthen security in schools and worship centres, enhance community vigilance, and improve collaboration between citizens and law enforcement.
“The protection of women and girls is a collective responsibility,” the statement read. “As we conclude the 16 Days of Activism, this is not the end of the fight but the beginning of renewed commitment to ensure women and girls can live, learn, and thrive without fear.”
Responding on behalf of the Minister of Women Affairs, the Permanent Secretary, Mrs Esuabana Nko Asanye, commended the labour movement for its sustained advocacy and assured that the ministry would give due attention to the concerns raised.
She reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to working with labour unions, civil society organisations, and development partners to eliminate all forms of violence against women and girls in Nigeria.
