The 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence is an international campaign focused on preventing and eliminating violence against women and girls (VAWG) worldwide. This campaign calls for global action to raise awareness, galvanize advocacy, and create opportunities for discussions on challenges and solutions to this pressing issue.

Despite efforts by the government and relevant stakeholders to address the menace of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) in Nigeria, it remains a persistent challenge. The Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) Programme, in partnership with the Nigerian government, has continued to provide critical support to combat this issue. This includes the establishment of Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs) that offer free, immediate, emergency medical, psychological, and legal services to survivors; the creation of National and State Sexual Offender Databases; the designation of SGBV Courts; support for the development and application of Guidelines for the Trial of SGBV Cases; and capacity building for investigators, prosecutors, and the judiciary. 

Every year, RoLAC joins the global community in commemorating the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence by collaborating with national, state, and civil society partners. During this period, we highlight critical gaps in national and state responses to SGBV, while leveraging ongoing efforts to advocate for national action, increase awareness, and share knowledge, best practices, and innovations for tackling SGBV.