The Ogun state chapter of the Nigerian Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) is actively addressing the issue of domestic violence, with a specific focus on advocating against violence targeting women and girls.
In furtherance of this commitment, on Friday, the association conducted outreach visits to secondary schools in Abeokuta, the capital of Ogun state.
The objective was to educate and raise awareness among young individuals, emphasizing the importance of rejecting all forms of violence.
The sensitisation was part of the Global 16 Days Campaign which runs every year from 25th November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, to 10 December, Human Rights Day to challenge violence against women and girls.
Led by the NAWOJ, Chairperson, Sekinat Salami, the team consisted of experienced women journalists working in various media organizations, who collectively recognized the urgency to address the issue of gender-based violence in society.
During the campaign, the journalists engaged with students on key issues surrounding gender-based violence, focusing on raising awareness, promoting empathy, and encouraging students to actively combat violence against women and girls in their communities.
Addressing the students at Abeokuta Girls Grammar School and African Church Grammar School, Sekinat said “Don't keep quiet when you are harassed and when anyone attempts to harass you, speak! Talk to your parents, teachers or anyone around you that you can trust.
“Girls, don't allow anybody to touch you anyhow, not even your private parts. Your bodies belong to you and not anyone else. You must diligently guide it. Make sure you speak up anytime someone tries to harass you.
“For the boys, stay away from any act that tends to violate the girl -child. Say no to bullying. Desist from domestic violence - beating a girl or a boy like you. Your health is also important - don't smoke, don't get involved in alcoholism, stay away from cultism. All these habit can destroy your future”, she said
