NEWS
Abia State Concludes 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence as Aba North Joins in Powerful Advocacy Walk and Seminar
…as Lady Nina Iheke Targets Boys for Strategic Sensitization at Government Technical College, Aba
Abia State has brought its 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence to a successful close, with Aba North Local Government Area joining the state-wide campaign through a robust advocacy walk and sensitization seminar. The event carried the theme: “Unite to End Digital Violence Against All Women and Girls.”
The initiative was championed by the Office of the Wife of the Governor of Abia State in collaboration with the Abia State Ministry of Women Affairs, as part of sustained efforts to curb gender-based violence and promote a safer, more just society for all.
As part of the activities marking the grand finale, the Wife of the Executive Chairman of Aba North Local Government Area, Lady Nina Iheke, led a sensitization visit to the Government Technical College, Aba, formerly known as Boys Technical College (BTC), where she engaged students on the dangers, realities, and consequences of gender-based violence in both physical and digital spaces.
Addressing the students, Lady Iheke explained that the choice of a boys’ school was deliberate, stressing that while girls are often the visible victims of gender-based violence, boys are also vulnerable to sexual abuse and exploitation. She emphasized that protecting all genders begins with awareness, responsibility, and the courage to speak out.
She cautioned the students to be vigilant against individuals who offer money or material gifts in exchange for inappropriate contact, advising them to immediately report such incidents to their parents and teachers. She further warned against the misuse of mobile phones, stressing that smartphones should be used strictly for educational purposes and not for viewing obscene or pornographic content, which she noted could derail their future and destroy their destinies.
Lady Iheke encouraged the students to take their academic pursuits seriously, urging them to work hard, excel in their studies, and make their families proud. She also advised them to be mindful of the company they keep and to protect their sisters and female peers, warning against exposing them to exploitation for monetary gains or fleeting benefits.
She strongly emphasized the growing threat of cyber gender-based violence, calling on boys to stand as protectors and allies of girls and women. She urged the students to avoid harmful behaviors, misuse of digital devices, and to always speak up whenever abuse occurs, reminding them that silence only empowers offenders.
Reassuring the students, Lady Iheke stated that the Abia State Government and the Aba North Local Government council are committed to protecting every gender and ensuring justice for victims of abuse. She stressed that there is no justification for violence in any form and warned students to be cautious about who they allow into their personal and digital spaces.
In her remarks, the Educational Secretary for Aba North, Mrs. Ngozi Omenazu, reinforced the message by highlighting the dangers and long-term effects of gender-based violence. She urged students to promptly report any incidents to school authorities before situations escalate beyond control.
Delivering a vote of thanks on behalf of the students, the Head Prefect of Government Technical College, Master Onyemechi Justice, expressed appreciation for the impactful visit by the Mayor’s Wife. He assured her that the students had carefully listened to the sensitization messages and pledged their commitment to uphold the values and guidance shared during the program.
The event marked a strong close to the 16 Days of Activism in Aba North, reinforcing the collective resolve to end gender-based violence and safeguard the dignity, future, and self-worth of 
every individual.