As part of our continued commitment to ending gender-based violence (GBV) and empowering young women with knowledge and confidence, the Women’s Technology Empowerment Centre (W.TEC) proudly rolled out our nationwide 2025 16 Days of Activism campaign, reaching girls across multiple states in Nigeria. This year’s campaign focused on helping girls understand their rights, stay safe both online and offline, and become advocates for safer communities.
Kicking Off in Kwara State: Conversations That Matter
The campaign began in Kwara State, where W.TEC engaged 82 girls from Ilorin Grammar School in an impactful and thought-provoking session. The discussion created a safe space for the girls to learn, ask questions, and reflect on real issues affecting them.
Speaking on the session, Gladys Epi-Jumbo, W.TEC’s Programmes Assistant (Kwara), shared:
“I had the privilege of facilitating a 16 Days of Activism session with 82 girls from Ilorin Grammar School, a powerful reminder of why this work matters. Together, we explored the realities of gender-based violence and equipped the girls with essential cybersecurity and online safety skills. Their curiosity, courage, and willingness to learn were truly inspiring.”
The session focused on understanding different forms of GBV, the importance of speaking up, and practical cybersecurity and online safety skills. The girls’ engagement and openness reinforced W.TEC’s belief that when girls are informed and confident, communities become safer and stronger.
Taking the Conversation to Lagos: Learning in a Familiar Space
In Lagos State, W.TEC commemorated the 16 Days of Activism at Surulere Girls, adopting a flexible and student-centred approach. Rather than a standalone event, the session was thoughtfully integrated into the girls’ regular training programme, allowing for a relaxed yet meaningful learning experience.
A total of 77 girls participated in the Lagos session at 3 seondary school, which began with a concise but powerful introduction to the global 16 Days of Activism campaign and why it is especially relevant for young girls today. Facilitators discussed gender-based violence, digital safety, and the importance of knowing one’s rights in both physical and online spaces.
The girls were also guided through practical online safety tips, including how to recognize red flags, protect personal information, and report harmful or inappropriate behaviour. W.TEC staff members contributed real-life examples and insights, helping to ground the discussion in everyday experiences the girls could relate to.
One of the most impactful moments of the session was the interactive segment, where participants asked thoughtful questions, shared perspectives, and sought clarity on how to protect themselves and support others. Their active participation reflected not only curiosity, but a genuine desire to be informed and empowered.
Building Safer Futures, One Girl at a Time
Across both Kwara and Lagos, the 2025 16 Days of Activism campaign reaffirmed W.TEC’s mission to equip girls with the tools, knowledge, and confidence they need to navigate today’s world safely. From large group discussions to smaller, intimate learning spaces, the message remained clear: girls deserve safety, agency, and a strong voice.
As the campaign continues across the nation, W.TEC will keep sharing stories, insights, and lessons from different communities—uniting voices and actions to end gender-based violence.
Together, we are raising informed, confident girls who can stand up for themselves and others.