By PJ Usanga
Staff of the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria (CSN) and agencies of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, wrapped up their 16-day activism campaign against Gender-Based Violence (GBV).
At a special thanksgiving Mass at the St. Gabriel Chaplaincy, CSN, the Episcopal Secretary for Migrants and Refugees unit, CSN, Rev. Fr. Augustine Akhogba in his homily, emphasized the importance of hope and resilience in the face of adversity. Quoting from the book of the Prophet Isaiah, Fr. Akhogba reminded the congregation that even in the midst of difficulties, God remains the higher source of comfort and aid.
Fr. Akhogba noted, “To suffer, go through stress is part of the human condition. Jesus himself said it that in the world we would have problems, and he consoled that he will be with us. Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and human rights abuse is part of life problems.” He urged the congregation to remain committed to the mission of promoting human dignity and ending GBV.
Fr. Akhogba emphasized, “We thank God for the work that is being done, and we call on everyone to fight against this social evil of gender base violence and human rights abuses in our society. We should collectively ensure that the dignity of the human person is respected in the world in which we live.”
Following the Mass, an interactive session was held with staff of CSN and agencies of the CBCN to discuss their understanding and personal experiences with GBV. The session was designed to foster collective action and ensure the dignity of the human person is respected in the society.
The 16 days activism which started on Monday, November 25, globally recognised as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, officially rounded off on Tuesday, December 10, the day internationally set aside as the Human Rights Day. It is an effort by the CBCN to promote human dignity, and create a society free from gender-based violence and human rights abuses.
