Digital Violence: RACE Centre, Partners Train 20 Female Undergraduates as Digital Safety Ambassadors in Benue

From Dooshima Terkura, Makurdi

As part of the activities marking the 16 Days of Activism Against Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV), more than 20 female undergraduates in Benue State have been trained as Digital Safety Ambassadors, equipping them with essential digital skills to advocate against online risks using social media platforms.

The Executive Director of Redefining Civic Engagement in Africa (RACE Centre), Pauline Ikyereve, revealed this during a one-day seminar organised by the Initiative for Human Rights and Gender Awareness, in collaboration with the RACE Centre, the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Benue State Chapter, and Protect Us Kids.

The programme, themed “Staying Safe Online Project,” focused on promoting digital rights and safety awareness to help young women confront issues such as cyberbullying, harassment, and other forms of Tech-Facilitated Gender-Based Violence (TFGBV).

The event brought together content creators, female social media influencers, medical practitioners, women’s rights advocates, journalists, videographers, and digital rights activists to champion digital safety and uphold the rights of women and girls to confidently navigate the online space.

“We unite as social media influencers from Benue State, passionate about empowering women and girls in the digital space. Through this project, we have proudly empowered 20 undergraduates as digital ambassadors,” Ikyereve said.

She added that the initiative would not stop there, noting: “We are expanding our awareness campaigns to high school learners, enhancing their digital literacy and safeguarding skills. With the right tools, including AI technology, they can navigate the digital world confidently while supporting peer learning.”

According to her, the organisation also intends to interface with government and educational institutions to push for policy reforms and curriculum reviews that prioritise digital safety and mental wellness, essential for building an ethical learning environment.

“As key actors in the digital world, your voices matter. You can shape discussions and drive solutions that prioritise the safety of women and girls. By sharing your insights, we can collectively address the barriers these vulnerable groups face online.

“This gathering also aligns with our commitment to the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, themed ‘End Digital Violence.’ Together, we must ensure that the digital experiences of women and girls are visible, empowered, and free from threats that often hide behind technology,” she said.

RACE Centre Program Manager, Uwaila Omosigho, noted that the organisation conducts research, drives social change initiatives, and works in internally displaced persons (IDP) camps, serving as a platform for advocacy—particularly against gender-based violence.

She urged content creators to promote value-driven content and use their platforms to foster positive social change.

Chairperson of FIDA Benue, Blessing Ityohuun, highlighted the effects of digital violence, including mental health challenges such as stress, anxiety, and suicide, as well as economic and social consequences.

Also speaking, Dr. Goodness Amuta of the Medical Women’s Association stressed the need for strong political will to combat gender-based violence, strengthen existing laws, and promote community-led awareness campaigns.