Turning Silence into Strength. Empowering Women Across Northern Nigeria.
WAR Initiative is a nonprofit organization fighting Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) by educating, advocating, and providing safe spaces for survivors. Join us in building a just and inclusive society where every woman knows her rights — and uses them.
Who We Are
Women Aware of Rights Initiative (WAR Initiative) is a nonprofit based in Northern Nigeria focused on breaking the culture of silence, empowering women and girls, and building a just, inclusive society.
Our Mission
To protect, educate, and empower women and girls through legal advocacy, psychosocial support, survivor-centered rehabilitation, and cultural-economic empowerment rooted in healing and heritage.
Our Impact
- 200,000+ women educated on legal, reproductive, and civic rights - 1,000+ survivors supported through the Inganci Centre - 500+ SGBV cases handled through legal aid and representation
Our Vision
A just and inclusive society where every woman and girl lives free from violence, fully aware of her rights, and empowered to thrive.
What We Do
- Free legal support and representation for survivors of SGBV
- Rehabilitation and trauma recovery via Inganci Centre
- Mass awareness and rights education outreach
- Vocational training and economic empowerment
- Cultural empowerment through the Arewa Fashion & Food Festival (AFFEST)
Inganci Rehabilitation Centre
Inganci — meaning 'quality' in Hausa — is our trauma-informed safe space for survivors of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV). We provide legal aid, therapy, shelter, and empowerment tools to help survivors reclaim their dignity and rebuild their lives.
Free legal aid and protection services for SGBV survivors.
Trauma-informed counseling, healing circles, and safe housing.
Vocational training and economic empowerment for restored independence.
Why AFFEST Matters
The Arewa Fashion and Food Festival (AFFEST) is more than a celebration — it’s a movement. Born from the healing journey of survivors at the Inganci Centre, AFFEST is a cultural and economic platform that restores voices, showcases talent, and transforms lives across Northern Nigeria.
AFFEST provides a safe, stigma-free platform where survivors express their creativity through fashion, food, and craft — transforming therapy into economic freedom.
Showcasing Northern Nigeria's rich traditions, AFFEST brings communities together through fashion shows, food fairs, and artisan markets driven by purpose and pride.
What began as a form of creative therapy has grown into an annual event of dignity and visibility. AFFEST is now a rallying point for economic empowerment and cultural celebration led by survivors.