By Jabiru Hassan, Kano.
On November 25,2024, Lift Africa Foundation, in collaboration with the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) and a coalition of civil society organizations (CSOs), has officially launched the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in Kano State.
Under the theme “Let’s End Violence Together,” this year’s campaign underscores the urgency of collective action in addressing GBV, strengthening legal frameworks, and empowering survivors.
Campaign Highlights The campaign kicked off with a series of live radio and television interviews designed to raise awareness about GBV and emphasize the critical need to domesticate the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act.
Although passed at the federal level in 2015, the VAPP Act has yet to be domesticated in Kano State, leaving survivors without adequate legal protections.
The week-long media sensitization campaign included key appearances by Barrister Aisha Hamman, Founder and Executive Director of Lift Africa Foundation, alongside other prominent advocates, including representatives from NAPTIP, civil society leaders, and judicial experts.
Media Engagements November 25: Aisha Hamman appeared on Freedom Radio, highlighting the urgency of addressing GBV in Kano and the significance of the 16 Days of Activism.
November 26: Hamman joined Abba Kallil, Public Relations Officer of NAPTIP, on Jalla Radio to discuss enforcement challenges and progress in prosecuting GBV offenders.
November 27: On Guarantee Radio, Hamman and Comrade Auwal Abdullahi addressed the societal impact of GBV and strategies for prevention at the community level.
November 28: Hamman and Salim Wada of Rescue the Women Foundation appeared on Hikima Radio to discuss findings from 2020 case studies linking street hawking to heightened risks of sexual exploitation.
November 29: On Radio Kano, Hamman and comrade Auwal Abdullahi amplified survivor voices and called for public support for domesticating the VAPP Act.
December 3: Hamman appeared on Abubakar Rimi Television (ARTV) alongside Fida Kano Chairperson, Chief Magistrate Hajiya Salma Danbappa, former NAPTIP Director Alhaji Mohammed Mashi, and Sheikh Abdulsalam Baban Gwale, exploring the proposed Harmonized VAPP Law for Kano State and its alignment with judicial and Islamic principles.
Statement from Barrister Aisha Hamman Speaking during the campaign launch, Aisha Hamman, a leading voice in the fight against GBV, stressed the critical need for legislative reforms in Kano State:
“Kano records the highest number of GBV cases in Nigeria, with an average of 139 incidents reported weekly.
This is a crisis that demands immediate action. Domesticating the VAPP Act is not just about passing a law; it is about creating a future where survivors are protected, offenders are held accountable, and women and girls are empowered to live free from violence and fear.”
She further emphasized the role of public awareness and multi-stakeholder collaboration in addressing the systemic barriers that perpetuate GBV in the state.
Advocating for Legislative Reform Throughout the campaign, speakers and panelists highlighted the need to domesticate the VAPP Act and implement a harmonized legal framework that aligns with Kano State’s unique socio-cultural context.
The lack of legal protections continues to leave countless women and girls vulnerable to abuse, exploitation, and discrimination. Key Advocacy Points:
Domesticating the VAPP Act: Establishing a comprehensive legal framework to address GBV and secure justice for survivors.
Strengthening Public Awareness: Using community-based platforms to educate citizens on GBV prevention and available resources for survivors.
Collaboration with Stakeholders: Fostering partnerships with government agencies, CSOs, and traditional leaders to amplify the fight against GBV.
The Path Forward As the 16 Days of Activism continue, Lift Africa Foundation will intensify its efforts through targeted advocacy, public sensitization, and capacity building.
The campaign will culminate on December 10, 2024 (International Human Rights Day), with renewed calls for legislative action, survivor empowerment, and increased investment in GBV prevention and response.
