22/06/2026
Women and Girl Child Rescue and Development Initiative, with support from Mission 21 Switzerland, held another impactful radio session on Doctor Fish Radio 90.1 FM, Jos, on our Overcoming Sexual and Gender Based Violence Program, "Safe Spaces, Safe Voices" focusing on the vital topic of Consent and Boundaries. A fundamental human right that promotes dignity, respect, and safety in every relationship.
Our guest, Barrister Shalom Chris Nson, provided an insightful discussion on the meaning of consent, why it matters, and the critical role it plays in preventing sexual and gender-based violence.
Consent is much more than simply saying "yes." It is a clear, informed, voluntary, and enthusiastic agreement between individuals before any physical, emotional, or sexual interaction takes place. Consent must be given freely, without pressure, fear, manipulation, threats, or coercion. It is also ongoing, meaning that anyone has the right to withdraw their consent at any time, regardless of what may have happened previously.
Equally important are boundaries. Boundaries are the personal limits we set to protect our physical, emotional, mental, and personal well-being. They help us communicate what we are comfortable with and what we are not. Healthy boundaries encourage mutual respect, build trust, and remind us that every individual has the right to make decisions about their own body, emotions, personal space, and relationships.
The discussion emphasized that respecting boundaries means listening when someone says "no," accepting their choices without pressure or guilt, and recognizing that no one is entitled to another person's time, attention, affection, or body. Healthy relationships are built on communication, respect, and a willingness to honour each other's boundaries.
When consent and boundaries are ignored, the consequences can be devastating. Violating another person's boundaries can lead to sexual and gender-based violence, emotional and psychological trauma, broken trust, damaged relationships, physical harm, and legal consequences for perpetrators. Survivors often experience lasting effects on their mental health, confidence, and overall well-being.
Respecting consent and boundaries is essential because it protects fundamental human rights, prevents abuse and exploitation, promotes equality, and fosters relationships built on trust and mutual respect. It also creates safer environments where women, girls, men, and boys can live free from violence, fear, and intimidation.
Every person has the right to decide what happens to their body, express their limits without fear, and have those limits respected. By understanding and promoting consent and healthy boundaries, we take another important step towards ending sexual and gender-based violence and building communities where dignity, equality, and respect are a way of life.
Together, let us continue to educate, challenge harmful social norms, and create safe spaces where every voice is heard, every boundary is respected, and every person's choice matters.
United Nations
UNICEF
Women for Women International - Nigeria
Women Environmental Programme
Human Rights Watch
Plateau State Ministry of Women Affairs & Social Development
Gender and Development Network
Plateau State Gender And Equal Opportunities Commission
