On November 25, 2024, Professor Fatima Waziri-Azi had the honor of participating in the European Union’s Breakfast Meeting with Gender Champions, held to commemorate the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.
The event brought together EU Ambassadors in Nigeria, gender activists, and service providers to reflect on the progress made in addressing sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) in Nigeria. It also provided a platform to discuss persistent challenges and identify strategies for a more impactful future.
During the discussions, Professor Waziri-Azi emphasized the critical need to strengthen the enforcement and implementation of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law at the state level. She also highlighted the urgent importance of providing adequate shelter for survivors of SGBV, underscoring that safe spaces are pivotal for recovery and empowerment.
The meeting was a powerful reminder of the collective effort required to create a society free from violence. It reaffirmed the importance of collaboration between policymakers, activists, and service providers in ensuring that survivors receive the support they need while fostering systemic change.