Soludo’s Wife calls for practical activism to end gender-based violence

Wife of Anambra State Governor, Dr Nonye Soludo, has called for more practical and sustained actions to eliminate all forms of violence against women and girls.

Soludo, Founder of Healthy Living initiative, made the call in a statement on Wednesday to commemorate 2025 International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, marked annually on Nov. 25.

The day signals the start of the global 16 days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, which runs until Dec.10, the International Human Rights Day.

She said the period serves as a reminder that the campaign requires more than words and hashtags.

According to her, there is the need for sustainable solutions to change negative narratives that continue to endanger the lives of women and girls.

“In a world where women and girls still feel threatened by the same environment and institutions that should help them grow, we must go beyond talking.

“Awareness should translate into concrete action to protect women and girls. It is time for practical activism,” she said.

Soludo said that the fight against gender-based violence should be a collective responsibility across homes, schools, workplaces, places of worship and all spaces where people interact.

She advised survivors of abuse to speak out, noting that silence often perpetuates the cycle of violence.

“Speaking up is a major aspect of fighting the scourge. Talk to people, report to authorities; just speak up,” she said.

The governor’s wife said ending gender-based violence would be easier if society prioritised the right interventions.

She called for empowerment of women and girls through education, improving access to affordable healthcare, creating job opportunities and strengthening social institutions.

Soludo said Anambra has made significant progress in these areas and continues to work toward improving the wellbeing and safety of women and girls.