IWD 2026: NSUK’s Centre for Gender Studies Advocates Safer Campuses and Gender Equity
By Roseline Okafor, Nasarawa.
Stakeholders at the 2026 International Women’s Day (IWD) celebration at Nasarawa State University, Keffi (NSUK), have called for stronger action to address gender-based violence and promote inclusive opportunities for women and girls.
The event, which took place on Monday, at the PG school auditorium was organised by the Centre for Gender Studies in collaboration with Media Health & Rights Initiative and the Women Environmental Programme, brought together academics, traditional leaders, policymakers, and students to reflect on challenges facing women, particularly within university communities.
Speaking during a pre-event press briefing, the Acting Director of the Centre, Dr. Comfort Adokwe Obed highlighted findings from a recent national survey which revealed a high prevalence of gender-based violence in tertiary institutions.
According to her, the study showed that a significant number of students and staff have experienced one form of violence or another within campus environments, underscoring the urgent need for institutional reforms and preventive measures.
She explained that the survey, conducted across twelve public universities in Nigeria, is part of a broader effort supported by Co-Impact to strengthen responses to sexual harassment and improve campus safety.
Adokwe stressed that beyond awareness, universities must implement policies that protect survivors and ensure accountability, while fostering a culture of respect and inclusion.
The main event further amplified calls for action, as speakers emphasised the need to move from dialogue to tangible change.
Delivering a keynote mentorship session titled “From Struggle to Service: My Journey as a Woman in Leadership,” the Federal Character Commissioner, Hon. Halima Ahmadu Jabiru, gave a powerful account of her personal and professional journey.
She spoke on the barriers women often face in leadership, including societal expectations, limited opportunities, and systemic bias, noting that her rise to public office was shaped by resilience, determination, and a commitment to service.
Jabiru encouraged young women to remain focused despite challenges, urging them to build capacity, seek mentorship, and embrace leadership opportunities when they arise.
She further described the theme of the 2026 IWD, “Rights, Justice, Action for All Women and Girls,” as a call that demands responsibility not only from institutions but from individuals.
According to her, achieving gender equity requires deliberate effort, consistent advocacy, and the willingness to challenge harmful norms that limit women’s progress.
Also speaking, the Vice-Chancellor of NSUK, Prof. Sa’adatu Hassan Liman, reaffirmed the university’s commitment to creating an enabling environment where women can thrive without restrictions.
She noted that empowering women goes beyond policy statements, stressing that access to education, leadership opportunities, and personal development must be actively supported.
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The Vice-Chancellor added that the institution remains dedicated to protecting the rights and dignity of women and girls, while promoting values that encourage equality and fairness.
In a goodwill message, the Emir of Keffi, Dr. Shehu Chindo Yamusa III, represented by Ibrahim Abdul, Wanban Keffi, commended the initiative and called for sustained investment in women’s empowerment beyond symbolic celebrations.
Earlier, the Deputy Director, Programmes at the Centre for Gender Studies, Dr. Hajara Ahmed, explained that the IWD Purple Party was designed not only to celebrate women’s achievements but also to inspire meaningful action towards gender equity in the community.
In her closing remark, Dr. Ochanya M. Yakubu Lamai, Deputy Director, Academics, Centre for Gender Studies, NSUK, appreciated participants and organisers for their contributions, urging continued commitment to promoting gender equality and sustaining the momentum beyond the celebration.
The event concluded with a renewed commitment from stakeholders to work collaboratively in ensuring safer campuses and a more inclusive society for women and girls.
