Plateau State First Lady, Barr. Helen Mutfwang, has reaffirmed her commitment to tackling digital gender-based violence (DGBV), saying the state government will continue strengthening efforts to protect women and girls from online abuse.
She made the remarks in Jos during the flag-off of the 2025 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, themed: “Unite to End Digital Violence Against All Women and Girls.”
Barr. Helen described the annual campaign as “a period that raises awareness and galvanizes action to end violence against women and girls.”
She noted that digital abuse is becoming a growing threat globally and locally, explaining:“Digital violence refers to any form of violence or abuse that occurs online or through digital means, targeting individuals, often women and girls, with the intention of causing harm, humiliation, or control.”
The First Lady stressed that the consequences of digital abuse go beyond the screen, adding that victims often suffer emotional distress, anxiety, social isolation and reputational damage, which may later affect their confidence and use of digital platforms.
She commended the current administration’s response to gender-based violence, acknowledging ongoing collaborations with development partners.
“The Plateau State Government has taken steps to address digital gender-based violence, including implementing key laws, establishing Sexual Assault Referral Centres, launching sensitization campaigns, and partnering with organizations such as UNICEF and the EU,” she said.
Barr. Helen assured that she will continue advocating for stronger policies that protect women’s rights.“Digital violence is real — no excuse for online abuse,” she stated.
Commissioner for Women Affairs, Hon. Caroline Dafur, praised the First Lady’s leadership, describing it as central to progress recorded so far. She noted that behind every recorded case is a human story.
“The number of SGBV cases handled in our state are not mere statistics. Each case represents a life impacted, a story of pain and resilience,” she said.
Hon. Dafur also commended Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang for what she described as his unwavering support for women and girls.
She disclosed that activities lined up for the 16 Days of Activism will include community sensitization, trauma healing and counseling for victims, empowerment programmes for survivors, and capacity-building workshops for social workers.
She appreciated the contributions of development partners, including MDAs, CSOs, ICAs, the Women and Girls Association, ROLAG, and the Child Protection Network.Regional Manager of the Strengthening Peace and Resilience in Nigeria (SPRING) programme, Mujidang Sitdang, also applauded the state government’s commitment.
“We have seen how community women and students have suffered because of violence,” he said, adding that SPRING would continue supporting initiatives aimed at ending gender-based violence and ensuring perpetrators face the law.
Acting Chairperson of the Plateau State Gender and Equal Opportunities Commission, Barr. Olivia Daziem, praised the First Lady’s sustained leadership.
Speaking to schoolchildren present, she urged caution in the use of technology.“As you handle phones in your hands, be very careful. There are people who can take advantage of you in the digital space,” she warned. She encouraged survivors not to remain silent
The event brought together government officials, civil society groups, students, and development partners committed to ending gender-based violence in Plateau State.
