Stakeholders seek student-centered approach to gender-based violence

The University of Lagos Centre for Human Rights has joined forces with stakeholders to organize a special event in celebration of Human Rights Day at J.F. Ade Ajayi Auditorium, UNILAG.

The event featured an inter-faculty debate, a panel discussion, presentation of Human Rights Lifetime Awards, and aims to raise awareness about the National Gender Policy and combat sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) within tertiary institutions.

The event was organized by the Center for Human Rights, UNILAG and supported by Action Aid Women Voice leadership project supported by Global Affairs Canada

The Director of the Centre, Dr. Abiola Akiyode-Afolabi, stated that the prevalence of SGBV remains a pressing concern, casting shadows on the safety, well- being, and educational experiences of students.

“This event marks a significant step forward in our mission to contribute to justice sector capacity-building, civil society outreach, and the development of human rights norms for a more democratic society in Nigeria and West Africa,” she said.

Speaking at the event, The Deputy Vice Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Professor Ayodele Atsenuwa, condemned violence against girls in higher institutions. 

She reiterated the commitment of UNILAG to protect the rights of girls in the school. The Representative of Action Aid, Anawiyat Yakubu called on the Nigerian government and relevant stakeholders to respect human rights as protected by the constitution; and prioritize the Standard Operating Procedure after its collation. 

Jude Abaga, a Nigerian musician popularly known as M.I who joined the session virtually stated that human rights discussion is fundamental to the structure of the society.

In his welcome address, the Dean of the Faculty of Law, Prof Ige Bolodeoku, commended the Center for Human Rights and the Human Rights Clinic for raising the consciousness of students about human rights and the National Gender Policy.