Mohamed Fall, United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, called for united efforts to end all forms of gender-based violence (GBV), including the rising threat of digital abuse. Speaking at the UN House in Abuja during the launch of the 16 Days of Activism Against GBV, Fall emphasized the evolving nature of violence against women now manifesting in cyberstalking, sextortion, impersonation, and hate speech across online platforms.
“Digital abuse aims to intimidate, silence, and push women out of public life,” Fall said, stressing that despite more women stepping into leadership roles, unequal power and protection gaps persist. He urged policies ensuring women’s safety online as fiercely as offline, alongside responsible action from technology companies.
UN Women Representative Beatrice Eyong noted the event’s global significance, highlighting that violence against women remains a pervasive human rights violation worldwide. The campaign runs from November 25 to December 10, aiming to raise awareness and promote advocacy against digital and other forms of GBV.
The event featured powerful youth performances and public lighting ceremonies, emphasizing community and institutional roles in defending dignity and respect for women and girls.
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