The United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mohammed Fall has stated that there is no excuse for violence against women in Nigeria.
In a statement made available to Tribune Online on Sunday, Fall also stated that no factors can justify girls and women’s sufferings, noting that there should be a collective role towards stopping the harmful narratives.
The UN Resident advocated for the creation of safer environments for the gender to access education, work, and health services for a better life.
While declaring that the International Organisation stands against violence on women and girls, Mohammed vowed to support Nigerian government and stakeholders against gender-based violence.
He explained that their responsibility includes strengthening legal frameworks, improving access to justice, and creating awareness to change mindsets and behaviours.
The Coordinator, therefore, called for support from community leaders, religious institutions, educators, and individuals.
Meanwhile, Fall emphasized the engagement of men and boys as partners in the fight, encouraging them to speak out against violence, challenge harmful gender norms, and foster respect and equality in their homes and communities.
He said survivors of violence must have access to healthcare, legal aid, and counseling services in order to heal and rebuild their lives.
Mohammed concluded that the full potential of every Nigerian can be collectively built where gender equality is not just an aspiration but a reality.
“There is no excuse for violence against women. No cultural practice, tradition, economic, or social pressure can justify the suffering endured by millions of women and girls.
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“Our role is to challenge these harmful narratives. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that every woman and girl can live free from fear of violence and discrimination.
“We must create safer environments where women and girls can access education, work, health services, and lead fulfilling lives without fear.
“As Nigeria joins the rest of the world to observe the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, I stand with the global community in declaring an urgent truth: There is no excuse for violence against women and girls.
“This is not a matter for debate; it is a call to immediate action. The United Nations in Nigeria stands firmly against violence in all its forms.
“We are resolute in our commitment to supporting the Nigerian government and all stakeholders to end gender-based violence.
“Our work in Nigeria focuses on strengthening legal frameworks, improving access to justice, and creating awareness to change mindsets and behaviours.
“But we cannot do this alone. We need support from everyone: community leaders, religious institutions, educators, and individuals.
“It is vital to engage men and boys as partners in this fight, encouraging them to speak out against violence, challenge harmful gender norms, and foster respect and equality in their homes and communities.
“We must also ensure that survivors of violence have access to the services and resources they need to heal and rebuild their lives. This includes healthcare, legal aid, and counseling services. It is essential to create spaces where survivors can share their stories without fear of retaliation and where their dignity is preserved.
“Together, we can unlock the full potential of every Nigerian and build a future where gender equality is not just an aspiration but a reality.
“There is no excuse for violence against women. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we can create a world free from violence and discrimination. A world where women can live with diginity and respect.” Fall said.
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