NAPTIP tackles online violence against women, girls

The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has warned that the rise in digital-age gender-based violence demands urgent national attention, as the 2025 edition of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence kicks off in Abuja.

Speaking at a press conference at the Federal Ministry of Justice, NAPTIP Director-General, Binta Adamu Bello, said this year’s global theme, ending digital violence against women and girls, reflects the growing reality that abuse now extends far beyond physical spaces.

She said online harassment, threats, stalking, and the viral circulation of harmful content have become widespread, with women and adolescent girls most affected.

“We are seeing a rise in online harassment, stalking, threats and the circulation of harmful content. These acts cause deep psychological harm and often escalate into physical violence.”

She noted that the agency had responded to increasing reports that involve minors, including a recent case in which a 19-year-old teacher raped a nine-year-old pupil, an incident she described as a stark reminder that both boys and girls require targeted intervention.

The DG reaffirmed that the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act remains central to NAPTIP’s work saying, “The VAPP Act is not a promise; it is a law that must be enforced to the letter. We are tightening our implementation strategies to make sure it is not rosy for any perpetrator in this country.”

Supporting NAPTIP’s position, Dr Adedayo Benjamin-Laniyi, the Hon. Mandate Secretary of the Women Affairs Secretariat, FCTA, said for the first time in a decade, the administration has achieved fully coordinated implementation of the VAPP Act across all six area councils and 62 wards.

She noted that cases of digital violence in Abuja had surged, prompting renewed interventions involving traditional leaders, community gatekeepers, women’s groups, and youth-focused programmes.

Dr Adedayo also said that digital abuse is often dismissed as harmless but noted that “a simple threatening text can become a viral stain that destroys a girl’s identity and triggers trauma that leads to physical harm or even femicide.”

Nigerians can now invest ₦2.5 million on premium domains and profit about ₦17-₦25 million. All earnings paid in US Dollars. Rather than wonder, click here to find out how it works.

Join Daily Trust WhatsApp Community For Quick Access To News and Happenings Around You.