***Millions of Nigerian Women to Live on Less Than $2.15 Per Day by 2030

With over 27,698 cases of gender-based violence (GBV) recorded between 2020 and 2023, the 100 Women Lobby Group National Hub has called for urgent action to address the alarming rise in violence against women, compounded by worsening economic conditions.
Speaking at an event marking the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, on a topic; Today’s economy and gender based Violence in Nigeria via Zoom over the weekend, Coordinator Felicia Onibon highlighted the critical need for comprehensive strategies to combat both violence and poverty.
“These figures are not just numbers; they represent the lives of women and girls who have suffered,” Onibon stated.
“Economic hardship has made many women more vulnerable to abuse, and we must act now to change this narrative.”

The event drew attention to the economic challenges facing Nigerian women, with current projections showing that millions will still live on less than $2.15 a day by 2030.
Onibon emphasized that poverty exacerbates women’s vulnerability to violence, noting that many are forced to prioritize their families’ needs over their own, often at great personal cost.
“Women are more food insecure than men, and the constant financial stress leaves them more susceptible to exploitation and abuse,” Onibon explained.

Onibon also criticized the inefficiency of Nigeria’s judicial system in handling GBV cases.
She pointed out that many cases languish in the courts for years, with a disturbingly low conviction rate.
“The lack of accountability within the justice system perpetuates a culture of impunity,” she said. “Survivors often remain silent, knowing that their chances of receiving justice are slim.”

The 100 Women Lobby Group urged policymakers, civil society organizations, and international partners to work together to address the intertwined issues of economic hardship and GBV.
Onibon called for increased investment in women’s economic empowerment and reforms to ensure swift justice for survivors.
“Ending GBV requires a multi-faceted approach,” she said.
“We need to address the root causes, from poverty to weak legal protections, and ensure that women have the resources to rebuild their lives.”

As the 16 Days of Activism continue, the 100 Women Lobby Group remains committed to raising awareness and advocating for systemic change. Onibon concluded by emphasizing the importance of collective action to ensure a future where women and girls are safe, empowered, and economically secure.
“Together, we can break the cycle of violence and poverty,” she said. “The time to act is now.”

Senator representing Kogi Central senatorial district, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has secured a job for Jafaru Adavize Muhammed, a graduate of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, following his public appeal for employment.

Adavize, who had been unemployed for several years, responded to Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s August 2024 announcement offering job opportunities to young graduates in her constituency.
He has since been employed by Air Peace and has resumed his duties.

In a message of gratitude, Adavize expressed heartfelt thanks to the senator:

“This opportunity is life-changing, and I am deeply grateful for your support and belief in my potential. Your dedication to uplifting others is truly inspiring, and I am committed to making the most of this opportunity.”

Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan congratulated Adavize and advised him to remain focused and hardworking. She emphasized her continued commitment to creating employment opportunities for the youth in her constituency.

“Stay diligent and make the most of this opportunity. I am committed to ensuring that more young graduates in Kogi Central have access to meaningful employment,” she said.

Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s intervention is part of her ongoing efforts to address youth unemployment. She has previously secured federal government and private-sector jobs for graduates, further demonstrating her dedication to the development and empowerment of her constituents.

Wife of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) and Chair of the House Committee on NAFDAC, Honorable Regina Akume, has
marked her birthday with a series of humanitarian visits to Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps and a correctional facility in Abuja and Nasarawa. Her outreach focused on providing relief to vulnerable communities and securing the release of inmates unable to pay fines.
During her visit to the IDP camp in Durumi, Abuja, Akume expressed deep concern over the poor living conditions.
She was particularly moved by the plight of children, as the camp’s only primary school, serving over 3,000 IDPs, has remained closed since 2016 due to a lack of teachers.
She vowed to bring the issue to the attention of her husband, Senator George Akume, and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, for urgent intervention.

In Karu, Nasarawa, Akume visited the Gurin Interfaith IDP Camp, which hosts victims of Boko Haram insurgency from Borno, Yobe, Taraba, and other northern states.
She assured the displaced persons that they were not forgotten, promising to advocate for their welfare and urging them to continue fostering peace with their host communities.
A significant part of her birthday celebration took place at Kuje Medium Correctional Centre, where Akume facilitated the release of over 20 prisoners by paying fines totaling more than N1 million.
The freed inmates, who had been sentenced with the option of fines ranging from N20,000 to N100,000, were advised by Akume to reflect on their past and contribute positively to society.

Commandant of the FCT Correctional Centres, Usman Ibrahim thanked Akume for her intervention.
He highlighted the need for legislative amendments to allow the FCT Minister to grant amnesty, a privilege currently reserved for state governors.

In each location, Akume donated essential supplies, including rice, yams, sugar, salt, blankets, and mosquito nets, ensuring the items were distributed without discrimination.
She also used the occasion to advocate for the elimination of violence against women, condemning the recent attacks in Benue State and calling for peace and support for affected families.

Akume’s birthday outreach underscored her commitment to humanitarian service, demonstrating her dedication to improving the lives of Nigeria’s most vulnerable populations.