The Nigerian Red Cross Society (NRCS) has called for stronger efforts to create safer online environments, warning that digital platforms are increasingly becoming hotspots for various forms of sexual and gender-based violence.
We gathered that Ms. Fatima Nasir, Director of Protection, Gender and Inclusion at the NRCS, made the call in Abuja during activities marking the organisation’s 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, which featured a community sensitisation road walk.
She noted that the annual campaign for 2025 carries the theme “No excuse for Online Abuse”, reflecting the growing urgency to tackle digital harm.
Referencing insights from the International Federation of the Red Cross (IFRC), Nasir explained that online threats are “accelerating at a pace communities could barely keep up with.”
She highlighted the scale of the problem: “From coordinated online harassment and persistent tracking to the misuse of personal information, manipulated imagery and targeted misinformation.
“These violations undermine confidence, erode dignity, and push women out of digital spaces.
“In their most extreme form, online attacks spill over into physical harm -with consequences that can be fatal.”
Nasir stressed the need for comprehensive prevention strategies, survivor-focused reporting channels, and widespread public education to stem the growing wave of tech-enabled abuse.
“We feel that the Nigerian Red Cross needs to create more awareness so that people understand that abuse is not just physical but can also take place in cyberspace.
“Online abuse is using the digital space to bully people. Sending them unwanted and inappropriate messages,” she added.
Gloria Kunyenga, Operations Coordinator at the IFRC, also urged stronger partnerships across sectors to confront digital sexual violence.
She noted that the issue extends far beyond the virtual space, describing it as a broad protection concern that requires policy reforms, behavioural shifts and continuous community enlightenment.
According to her, the IFRC remains committed to helping the NRCS address cyberbullying in all its forms.
“Luckily in 2025, the theme of the 16 days of activism has to do with including women, girls and young children in a digital world.
“You must understand that these people can be abused and we want to create awareness so that these categories of people may be protected when they use the internet.
“We also want women and girls to know their rights because many do not even know that online abuse exists.
