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Summary
As part of her campaign for International Women’s Day on March 8, 2025, NFM is set to hold a space on X (formerly Twitter) to discuss “Deconstructing Rape Culture in Nigeria’s Political Climate.” We are also accepting Literary submissions from creatives, artists, poets, writers, and the like, using the theme #CollectiveActionNow.
For over a century, International Women’s Day (IWD) has been a global call to action for gender equality, women’s rights, and social justice. Celebrated annually on March 8, it is a day to reflect on the progress made, recognise the persisting challenges, and recommit to building a future where women and girls can live free from oppression, violence, and discrimination.
A History of Resistance and Progress
The origin of IWD dates back to the early 1900s when women worldwide were fighting for their rights to vote, work, and be treated equally under the law. The first official celebration took place in 1911, following efforts by labour movements and women’s organisations in Europe and the United States. Since then, IWD has evolved into a truly international movement, with the United Nations officially recognising March 8 as a global day of observance in 1977.
Each year, IWD serves as a reminder that while progress has been made, women continue to face systemic challenges—gender-based violence, economic inequality, lack of political representation, and cultural barriers that hinder their full participation in society. It is a day not just for celebration but for action.
CollectiveActionNow: NFM’s Theme for IWD 2025
At Naija Feminists Media (NFM), we recognise that real change comes from collective effort. That is why our theme for International Women’s Day 2025 is #CollectiveActionNow.
Change does not happen in isolation. The fight against gender-based violence, workplace discrimination, political exclusion, and harmful cultural practices requires a united front. This year, we will launch a series of activities, including media literacy initiatives, calling on individuals, organisations, policymakers, and communities to move beyond conversations and take concrete steps towards gender justice. Whether through policy advocacy, grassroots organising, storytelling, or digital activism, we must work together to dismantle the structures that oppress women and girls.
Amplifying Women’s Voices Through Storytelling
One of the most powerful tools for change is storytelling. Women’s voices have long been silenced, erased, or dismissed, but we reclaim our power through literature and personal narratives.
As part of our IWD campaign, NFM accepts literary submissions—essays, poetry, and personal reflections—exploring the realities of womanhood, resistance, and change.
These stories will serve as a platform for women to share their experiences, challenge harmful norms, and inspire collective action. We create space for truth, healing, and transformation by telling our own stories.
Sustaining Critical Conversations
Beyond literature, NFM has consistently fostered conversations on some of the most pressing issues affecting women and girls. Over time, we have hosted Spaces on X (formerly Twitter) on topics such as:
- Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and the urgent need to end this harmful practice.
- The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence amplifies survivor voices and advocacy efforts.
- The International Day of Education, addressing the gender disparities in education access and the importance of translating academic excellence in women to the newsroom.
This year, as part of our IWD 2025 campaign, we will host another important conversation on “Deconstructing Rap Culture in Nigeria’s Political Climate” on Mar. 8, 2025, by 5 pm (WAT).
This discussion will bring together women’s rights activists, survivors, and politicians to analyse the deep-rooted issue of rape culture in Nigeria’s political sphere and beyond. Rape culture thrives on silence, victim-blaming, and impunity. We can chart a path forward to create a safer society for women and girls by dissecting how it manifests in political and social structures.
How You Can Participate
There are countless ways to get involved in International Women’s Day 2025:
- Write & Share: Submit your literary pieces to NFM’s IWD campaign and add your voice to the growing archive of feminist storytelling.
- Join the Conversation: Participate in our Twitter Space and engage in meaningful dialogue about the issues that affect women and girls in Nigeria. You can also reach out to us if you are interested in being a speaker for the event.
- Advocate & Act: Support policies that advance women’s rights, challenge gender-based violence, and create inclusive spaces for women in leadership.
- Educate & Mobilise: Raise awareness about IWD within your communities, workplaces, and schools. Every conversation brings us closer to change.
A Movement, Not Just a Moment
International Women’s Day is not just a date on the calendar—it is a movement that demands sustained action. The fight for gender justice cannot be won in a single day, but through #CollectiveActionNow, we can push forward, break barriers, and create a future where every woman and girl can thrive. Join us in making this IWD count. Together, we can rise and take collective action.
