Ehis Agbon, Kaduna, Nigeria – March 9, 2025
Thousands of men, women, and children flooded the streets of Kaduna on Saturday in a powerful demonstration for gender equality and an end to violence against women. The seven-kilometer walk, themed “Empowering Women for a Gender-Equal World,” was organized by Sabo 2 The World in collaboration with the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Sabon Tasha Ward, Chikun Local Government Area.
Participants from various backgrounds joined the march, reinforcing the urgent need for societal change. Richard Garu, a coordinator of Sabo 2 The World, emphasized the importance of recognizing the value of women and girls.
“Our girls and women should also engage themselves in some of the activities that society attributes to men,” Garu said, adding that education and awareness are crucial in combating gender violence.
He further stressed the need to teach boys from a young age about respect and equality. “We need to educate our boys, who will grow to become men, that it is not good to abuse or harass women,” he noted.
Mrs. Talatu Odu, another organizer, highlighted the significance of the walk, explaining that it aimed to “educate the public on the dangers of gender inequality” and to inspire women to “be as prosperous as men.”
A participant, Yahaya Tabat Friday, acknowledged the widespread violence against girls and stressed the importance of men leading the campaign for change. “There is violence and abuse of girls, and we want to see how we men can take the lead in promoting equality and respect,” he said.
The event was a strong testament to collective action, reinforcing the call for gender equality. Jessica Bartolomew, Chairperson of the Kaduna Social Protection Accountability Coalition (KADSPAC), captured the spirit of the march, stating:
“After today, we respect men for being there for us. Women, too, should aim higher. We can have a woman as President, as seen in other countries.”
The walk, which covered a route from Valid through Sabo Market to Sabo Bridge, before returning to the NYCN office along Kaduna Refinery and Petrochemical Company Road, saw a turnout that far exceeded the organizers’ expectations.
With its success, the march has left a resounding message: the fight for gender equality is gaining momentum, and the demand for an end to gender-based violence is louder than ever.
