The European Union in collaboration with the United Nations Spotlight Initiative is set to release a Nigerian movie which addresses the issue of Gender-Based Violence, GBV, to the viewing public.
The movie titled “Deafening Silence” is a Feature Length Film, comprising 8 Episode Limited Series, and 44 Episode TV Series.
The movie also involves the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Foundation for Resilient Empowerment and Development (FRED).
Speaking during the trailer of the Star-studded movie, the Deputy Resident Representative, UNDP, Blessed Chimrimuta said that the collaboration of the EU-UN, UNDP, and FRED with the Spotlight Initiative aligns seamlessly with the plans of the government of Nigeria and the EU-UN Gender Action Points.
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“This intervention seeks to challenge and reshape prevailing gender norms not only in Nigeria but beyond.”
He reminded the audience that “Deafening Silence is not just a movie for entertainment but in search to deliver compelling and thought-provoking moments that will serve as a catalyst for sparking wider conversation around gender inequality, and gender violence, against women.”
The UN Resident Coordinator in Nigeria, Mattias Schmale, expressed satisfaction with being part of the intervention against GBV, which is a priority for his organisation.
He emphasised the need to find better ways of communicating and engaging the people on the issue of gender-based violence.
He reiterated that the human rights of vulnerable people including women and children, particularly girls, should be protected.
The Deputy Head of Mission, EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Zissimos Vergos, emphasized that gender-based violence is a global problem.
He states that in the 21st century, gender inequality remains among the key drivers of poverty and this undermines cohesion and balance in our society.
The Director General of the National Broadcasting Commission, Mr. Charles Ebuebe commended Spotlight Initiative and the partners and collaborators who joined forces to conceive and work on this project.
He promised to stand behind the partners on the project and pledged to give all the necessary support within his jurisdiction.
In her overview of the Film “Deafening Silence” Onyinye Belinda Ndubuisi, UNDP Gender and Human Rights Lead, said: “The title “Deafening Silence” has been carefully chosen to encapsulate the profound paradox inherent in the issues, the movie and television series aim to address: Gender Equality, Gender Empowerment, and Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV).” s
The Film directed by Biodun Stephen stars the best of Nollywood – including but not limited to Toni Tones, Kate Henshaw, Femi Jacobs, Daniel Etim Effiong, Chidi Mokeme, and Bimbo Akintola. Others in the blockbuster film are Debby Felix and Ekamma Etim-Inyang.
