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Uniting Against Gender-Based Violence: A Call for Change in Nigeria and Beyond
Gender-based violence (GBV) remains a pervasive issue affecting countless women and girls across Nigeria, perpetuating cycles of fear, exclusion, and injustice. However, the annual 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence offers a powerful platform for communities to rally together, demanding a future where safety, respect, and equality prevail for all women and girls.
Global Solidarity from November 25 to December 10
Each year, from November 25th-the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women-to December 10th, recognized as Human Rights Day, millions worldwide join forces to highlight the urgent need to eradicate GBV. This period serves as a critical moment to raise awareness, foster dialogue, and mobilize action against violence rooted in gender discrimination.
WARIF’s Leadership in Nigeria’s Fight Against GBV
For over seven years, the Women at Risk International Foundation (WARIF) has spearheaded this movement within Nigeria through its impactful WARIF No Tolerance March (NTM). This annual event has grown into a symbol of resilience and hope, bringing together individuals, organizations, and communities under the unyielding message: zero tolerance for gender-based violence.
Expanding Reach: The 2024 No Tolerance March and Beyond
The 2024 edition of the No Tolerance March marked a significant expansion, with vibrant demonstrations held not only in Nigerian cities like Lagos, Abuja, and Ibadan but also internationally in cities including London, Manchester, New York, Houston, Washington D.C., Minnesota, and Frankfurt. Over 3,500 marchers took to the streets in Lagos alone, while digital platforms connected more than 18 million people globally, amplifying the call for justice.
Building on this momentum, the 2025 WARIF No Tolerance March is set to take place across 18 cities worldwide, encompassing locations such as Sokoto, Maiduguri, Zamfara, Accra, Nairobi, Northwest UK, Atlanta, Paris, Philadelphia, alongside the previously mentioned cities. This global expansion underscores the universal urgency of combating GBV.
Rooted in Local Realities, Driving Global Change
What distinguishes the No Tolerance March is its authentic connection to the everyday experiences of Nigerian women and girls. Amid entrenched cultural norms and systemic obstacles that sustain violence, WARIF’s campaign has evolved into a transformative movement focused on empowerment, accountability, and narrative change. It fosters open conversations, challenges harmful traditions, and encourages communities to take ownership of the fight against GBV.
Supported by a network of local and international collaborators, the march functions as both an educational forum and a powerful call to action. It emphasizes prevention strategies, the creation of safe environments, and the dismantling of institutional barriers that hinder the protection and advancement of women and girls.
Comprehensive Impact: WARIF’s Holistic Approach
Beyond the march itself, WARIF’s influence extends through its integrated approach combining prevention, intervention, and advocacy. Anchored by three core pillars-Health, Education, and Community Service-the organization delivers vital medical care and psychological support to survivors, while also conducting outreach and educational initiatives that empower communities to break cycles of violence.
Recent data from the Nigerian National Bureau of Statistics reveals that approximately 30% of women aged 15-49 have experienced some form of physical violence, underscoring the critical need for sustained efforts like WARIF’s. By addressing these challenges holistically, WARIF is not only transforming individual lives but also fostering safer, more resilient communities.
Join the Movement: Stand Against Gender-Based Violence
As the world commemorates the 16 Days of Activism, the WARIF No Tolerance March serves as a compelling testament to the power of collective action. Together, we can forge a future where every woman and girl enjoys dignity, security, and freedom from violence.
Event Details:
Date: Saturday, December 6, 2025
Locations: Lagos, Abuja, Ibadan, Sokoto, Maiduguri, Zamfara, Accra, Nairobi, London, Northwest UK, Atlanta, New York, Houston, Minnesota, Paris, Philadelphia, Washington D.C., and Frankfurt.
Connect and share your support using the hashtags: #WARIFNoTolerance2025 #WARIFNoToleranceMarch #16DaysOfActivism
