By: Monday Danladi, Bauchi
Vulnerable women including female commercial sex workers in Bauchi communities have been encouraged to speak out anytime they felt that their rights as women have been trampled upon by anyone.
They were also sensitized on their rights, justice and protection as citizens of the country.
The assertion was made when a Bauchi based NGO, Imperial Women Initiative, organized a one-day community awareness event aimed at promoting women’s rights, justice, and protection for vulnerable groups.
The event, which brought together community members, including women, youths, female sex workers, community leaders, and staff of the organization, was part of the 2026 International Women’s Day celebration with the theme: “Rights, Justice, and Action for Women and Girls.”
The event recorded the participation of not fewer than 60 attendees, including community women, youth representatives, female sex workers, community leaders, and staff members of Imperial Women Initiative.
The diverse participation provided an opportunity for inclusive dialogue on issues affecting women and vulnerable populations within the Tudun Wadan Dan Iya (Bayan Gari) community.
In her opening remarks and brief on International Women’s Day, the Executive Director, Victoria Ayodele Fajimi, emphasized the value and dignity of women, stressing that they are the tonic the community need to roll.
She reminded participants that every woman deserves respect, safety, and equal opportunities regardless of her social status.
Victoria Ayodele further emphasized that women’s rights are fundamental human rights and encouraged community members to support and protect women, especially those from vulnerable groups such as female sex workers.
The ED also called on community leaders and men to play active roles in promoting respect, justice, and equality within their communities.
According to her, “We are yet to secured sponsors or grant, all we are doing is self sponsored by the Board, the Executive Director who is also the Founder, Volunteers as well as family and friends. We are therefore soliciting for partnerships and collaborations.”
In a brief presentation on the significance of International Women’s Day delivered by a staff member of the organisation, it highlighted the importance of recognizing women’s contributions to society and the need to continue advocating for gender equality, justice, and respect for women’s rights.
A resource person from the National Human Rights Commission, Barrister Abdullahi Isah Darazo, gave a presentation on the theme “Rights, Justice, and Action for Women and Girls.”
A cross section of the participants
He emphasized that women’s rights are human rights and encouraged participants to know where to report cases of abuse and violations.
He further explained that the Commission is available 24/7 to receive complaints and support victims of human rights violations, particularly cases of rape, physical assault, and other forms of violence affecting female sex workers and women in the community.
He further emphasized that women’s rights are human rights and encouraged participants to understand their rights and know where to seek support when those rights are violated.
Abdullahi Darazo informed participants that the National Human Rights Commission is available 24 hours a day to receive and respond to complaints related to human rights violations.
During the interactive session, one of the gatekeepers, the chairman of the brothel holders, expressed appreciation for the opportunity to attend the program.
He stated that discussions on rights are important because, in many cases, the rights of people in their community are violated, sometimes even by government officials.
A female sex worker also spoke during the session, encouraging her colleagues to conduct themselves responsibly while appreciating organizations like Imperial Women Initiative that work tirelessly to support vulnerable groups and advocate for their rights.
The event successfully created awareness about women’s rights, justice, and the importance of collective action in protecting vulnerable populations.
Participants gained valuable knowledge about available support systems and the role of the National Human Rights Commission in addressing human rights violations.
The programme also strengthened community engagement and reinforced the commitment of Imperial Women Initiative to continue advocating for the rights, dignity, and empowerment of women and vulnerable groups.
International Women’s Day is a global event celebrated to recognize the achievements of women and advocate for gender equality and the protection of women’s rights.
Participants at the meeting
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