Youth Artivism Festival in Ilorin Sparks Dialogue on Gender-Based Violence
Young Nigerians have taken a bold step by calling for urgent action against gender-based violence (GBV) and advocating for the use of art as a powerful tool for social change and gender justice. This call was made during the Youth Artivism Festival, held in Ilorin on Saturday. The event was organized by the Brain Builders Youth Development Initiative (BBYDI) with support from the Ford Foundation, as part of activities marking the foundation’s 65th anniversary in West Africa.
The festival brought together over 300 participants, including young artists, activists, policymakers, and members of the public. Their goal was to explore how youth creativity can be harnessed to challenge societal norms, amplify marginalized voices, and demand accountability on issues of GBV. The gathering served as a platform for dialogue, artistic expression, and advocacy, highlighting the intersection between art and social justice.
In her opening remarks, Nurah Jimoh-Sanni, the Executive Director of BBYDI, emphasized the transformative power of art in changing mindsets and advancing justice. She stated:
“Young people are not just witnesses to injustice; they are change agents. Through art, they can challenge silence, demand accountability, and inspire action against gender-based violence.”
Artworks Highlight Empowerment and Resilience
Arewa PUNCH reported that the festival featured an exhibition of works by 22 finalists selected from more than 100 submissions across the North Central region. The artworks were rich in symbolism and emotion, focusing on themes of empowerment, resilience, and equality. Each piece aimed to provoke thought and spark conversations about the challenges faced by women and girls in society.
During the award presentation, Usman Adam, a law graduate, emerged as the overall winner with his piece titledSketching Another Shoulder. The artwork depicted solidarity and shared responsibility in ending GBV. He received a cash prize of N200,000. Simon Thazhigilla from Nasarawa State came second with his worksBride of WarandAnatomy of Science, which explored the emotional and cultural dimensions of violence, earning N150,000. Tobi Olomola, a 25-year-old visual artist, took third place withWeight of Becoming, which examined the burden of identity and social expectation in the context of gender inequality, winning N100,000.
All 22 finalists received certificates of recognition for their contributions to art and advocacy, underscoring the importance of their work in raising awareness about GBV.
Panel Discussion: Art as Advocacy
A key highlight of the event was a panel discussion titled“Art as Advocacy: The Role of Creativity in Preventing Gender-Based Violence.”The session featured Mal Yusuf Babatunde Abdulqadir, Eduvielawhe Olutimayin of Street Project Foundation, Joy Oluwatoyin Adeboye, Barrister Jumoke Olaoye, and Evang. Funmilayo Olutimehin. Moderated by Sanni Alausa-Issa, BBYDI’s Communications Director, the discussion explored how creative expression can amplify survivors’ voices, shift public attitudes, and influence policy reform.
Joy Adeboye, a GBV survivor and advocate, shared how art became her tool for healing and empowerment. She said:
“Art gave me back my voice. It helped me transform pain into purpose and use my story to inspire others.”
A Movement Begins
In her closing remarks, Ramat J. Owolabi, BBYDI’s Head of Women Development and Climate, expressed gratitude to the Ford Foundation and other partners for their support. She stressed that the festival marked the beginning of a broader movement.
“The Youth Artivism Festival is not just an event. It is the beginning of a sustained movement. We are committed to ensuring that art continues to drive advocacy and inspire hope in communities across Nigeria.”
Conclusion: A Call for Collective Action
The event concluded with a dramatic performance by the D’Stars Drama Troupe, which left participants reflecting on the need for collective action against GBV. The festival not only showcased the power of art but also highlighted the critical role of youth in shaping a more just and equitable society. As the discussions and performances unfolded, it became clear that art is not just a form of expression—it is a force for change.