By: Monday Danladi, Bauchi
Women and adolescent girls in Goli Community, Miri Ward of Bauchi LGA in Bauchi State, have been advised not to suffer in silence when their rights are trampled upon.
They were rather advised to always speak out in order to protect their rights and demand justice as well as right actions.
The advice was given to the Women by a Bauchi based NGO, Imperial Women Initiative (IWI), during a sensitization organised to commemurate the 2026 International Women’s Day (IWD) with the theme: “Rights, Justice, and Action for Women and Girls.”
The 2026 IWD is focusing on raising awareness on women’s rights, access to justice, and protection against violence, especially for vulnerable women in the community.
Not fewer than 100 participants, including community women, men, youths, children and community leaders, and staff of Imperial Women Initiative attended the occasion .
The Goli community is largely consisting of women who have experienced various forms of physical and emotional violence in the past.
The programme commenced with a welcome address and a brief overview of International Women’s Day by a staff member, emphasizing the importance of promoting gender equality, rights awareness, and community action.
In her keynote address, the Executive Director of Imperial Women Initiative (IWI), Victoria Ayodele Fajimi, highlighted the dignity, value, and rights of women.
She encouraged women to recognize their worth, speak out against violence, and support one another in building a safe and inclusive community.
The ED declared that, “We are yet to secure sponsors or grant for our programmes, all we are doing are self sponsored by Board, the Executive Director who is also the Founder, volunteers as well as family and friends. We are ready for any collaboration or partnerships.”
During the technical sessions, there was a representative from the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Bauchi State office, represented by Barrister Nuru Sulaiman, Investigation Officer.
The NHRC representative, delivered a presentation on the rights of every individual, stressing key rights such as the right to education, economic empowerment, and access to justice.
He urged women to live to their full potential in order to avoid situations that may expose them to violence or harm.
He further encouraged all community members to report any cases of rights violations, stressing that the protection of human rights is a collective responsibility.
During discussions, a community mobilizer who also serves as a volunteer on peace and security called on women to cooperate with their spouses and avoid situations that may lead to violence.
Participants actively shared experiences, creating a platform for dialogue and mutual understanding.
At the end of the meeting, sanitary materials and refreshments were distributed to participants to support their well-being.
The event successfully increased awareness of women’s rights and justice in Goli Community just as it strengthened community commitment to preventing violence, promoting peaceful coexistence, and ensuring that women and girls live with dignity, safety, and equal opportunities.
Executive Director, Victoria Ayodele-Fajimi
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