By Emmanuel Kwada
In a powerful conclusion to this year’s 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), Her Excellency Hajiya Lami Ahmadu Fintiri delivered an impassioned plea for sustained action against the pervasive issue of GBV.
Speaking at a vibrant event held in Yola, she urged community leaders, educators, and families to confront the systemic inequalities and harmful cultural norms that perpetuate violence against women and girls.
Reflecting on the campaign’s theme, “Tracing the Roots: Standing Against Gender-Based Violence,” Hajiya Lami emphasized that the fight against GBV is not merely a seasonal endeavor but a continuous commitment that requires the collective efforts of all sectors of society.
The fight against GBV is not merely a seasonal endeavor but a continuous commitment that requires the collective efforts of all sectors of society
“We must dig deep into the roots of this societal menace and address the underlying causes that allow it to thrive,” she stated, calling for a culture of respect, dignity, and justice for all individuals.
Under the leadership of her husband, Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, Adamawa State has made significant strides in combating GBV. Hajiya Lami commended the administration for enacting pivotal legislation, including the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law and the Child Protection Law, which provide a robust legal framework to protect the rights of citizens. She also highlighted the administration’s efforts to empower women through leadership opportunities at both state and local government levels, reinforcing the commitment to gender equality and inclusion.
We must dig deep into the roots of this societal menace and address the underlying causes that allow it to thrive
As the First Lady of Adamawa State, Hajiya Lami has been a tireless advocate for the rights of women and children. Through her office and the Fresh Air Pro-Life Empowerment Foundation (FAPEF), she has spearheaded numerous initiatives aimed at addressing GBV. These initiatives include providing financial support to survivors, enabling them to rebuild their lives and regain their dignity, and establishing GBV Clubs in schools to educate young people about the importance of standing against violence in all its forms.
During the event, Hajiya Lami also highlighted the significance of the Inter-School Fashion Parade, which served as a platform for students to express their creativity while promoting values of respect and self-worth. “You do not need to compromise your dignity to look good. This event celebrates creativity and self-expression while reinforcing the values of respect and self-worth,” she remarked.
As the 16 Days of Activism drew to a close, Hajiya Lami called upon all stakeholders to remain vigilant in the fight against GBV, emphasizing that it is a shared responsibility.
You do not need to compromise your dignity to look good
She expressed her gratitude to partners, particularly the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), for their unwavering support in championing GBV initiatives in Adamawa State and beyond.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Zainab Umar Adamu, echoed Hajiya Lami’s sentiments, thanking her for her relentless support and commending all partners for their dedication to eradicating GBV across the state and the nation.
Dr. Idrissa Danladi, representing UNFPA, praised Hajiya Lami for her proactive leadership in addressing GBV in Adamawa State. He acknowledged the numerous programs she has initiated and thanked all stakeholders for their contributions to the success of this year’s campaign.
As the event concluded, attendees celebrated the achievements of the campaign while reaffirming their commitment to a future free from gender-based violence. The theme, “Tracing the Roots: Standing Against Gender-Based Violence,” resonated deeply, leaving a lasting message that with unity, advocacy, and unwavering action, the roots of this societal issue can be unearthed and eradicated.
The evening also featured a fashion parade competition, showcasing participants from 13 higher institutions across Adamawa State. The event culminated in the presentation of crowns to the top three winners, with Hajiya Lami leading the ceremony alongside Commissioners Hon. Augustina Wandamiya and Hon. Wunfe B. Anthony.
Promise Audu Ogah from Adamawa State Polytechnic, Yola, claimed first place, followed by Safiya Bakari from the Nigerian Law School, Yola campus, in second, and Joy Vandi Kwache from the College of Health Technology, Michika, in third.
As the community reflects on the impactful messages shared during the 16 Days of Activism, the call for sustained action against gender-based violence remains clear: together, we can create a safer, more equitable society for all.
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