As the global community marks the 16 Days of Activism Against Violence Against Women, the NECA’s Network of Entrepreneurial Women (NNEW) has reinforced its dedication to eliminating Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV), with particular focus on women entrepreneurs, business owners, and professionals across Nigeria.
NNEW leadership emphasizes that SGBV is not only a profound human rights issue but also a significant impediment to national economic growth and women’s financial independence.
According to NNEW President Mrs. Adefunke Kuyoro, gender-based violence represents both a fundamental human rights violation and a significant obstacle to women’s economic advancement. “Women cannot reach their full entrepreneurial potential when they face harassment, intimidation, or discrimination based on gender,” Mrs. Kuyoro noted. “NNEW is dedicated to fostering secure business environments where women can innovate, expand, and lead without apprehension. Eliminating gender-based violence is fundamental to achieving inclusive economic prosperity in Nigeria.”
Reinforcing the danger of violence against women, the Vice President, Mrs. Bolanle Edwards, pointed out that SGBV takes multiple forms including physical, psychological, economic, and digital, restricting women’s access to financing, mentorship opportunities, and valuable business networks. “Women entrepreneurs encounter distinct obstacles that impede their participation in business and economic development. This activism period underscores the necessity of protective policies, secure working conditions, and fair opportunities,” she emphasized.
The Publicity Secretary, Mrs. Eniola Mayowa, outlined NNEW’s comprehensive approach during the 16-day campaign, which integrates awareness-building, advocacy efforts, and concrete interventions to combat violence and harassment wherever women conduct business. “Our 16 Days of Activism programme includes awareness campaigns, business-oriented sensitization workshops, and a webinar facilitating experience sharing among women entrepreneurs,” she explained. “Additionally, we’re championing the adoption and enforcement of anti-harassment policies across workplaces, marketplaces, and digital platforms, ensuring women can operate and develop their businesses in safety and with confidence.”
NNEW’s 16 Days of Activism Programme Highlights
- Awareness Campaigns: Nationwide education initiatives addressing the scope and consequences of SGBV.
- Experience Sharing Webinar: Interactive online forum where women entrepreneurs exchange challenges, proven practices, and approaches for overcoming gender-related business barriers.
- Anti-Harassment Policies: Advocacy for implementing and upholding protective measures in workplaces, marketplaces, and online spaces.
NNEW’s Call to Action
NNEW calls upon government bodies, civil society organizations, business leaders, and community stakeholders to:
- Implement and enforce anti-harassment policies across workplaces, marketplaces, and digital platforms.
- Eliminate discriminatory obstacles preventing women’s access to finance and business opportunities.
- Establish secure reporting mechanisms for violence and support service access.
- Champion mentorship, training, and empowerment initiatives for women entrepreneurs.
- Mobilize men and boys as partners in preventing violence against women
Adeniyi Adeyanju Executive Secretary, NNEW