Nigeria’s justice and social sectors have reaffirmed their commitment to tackling gender-based violence (GBV) and improving access to survivor support services, with growing attention to new digital threats.
Speaking at the 11th Network Conference of Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs) in Abuja, Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, revealed that the country now has 50 functional SARCs across 24 states, providing assistance to over 58,000 survivors. She noted, however, that the demand continues to rise and more centres are urgently needed.
The minister also announced plans for an Emergency GBV Response Fund, aimed at offering stable funding for shelters, referral pathways, and essential survivor services.
“This fund will ensure that survivors have continuous access to essential support,” she said.
Reinforcing international support, Ambassador Gautier Mignot of the European Union highlighted the growing use of digital spaces as platforms for abuse and exploitation. He emphasised the EU’s commitment to promoting gender equality and eliminating all forms of GBV.
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Dr Roba Sharamo, Regional Director of International IDEA, described the conference as an important platform for shaping solutions and strengthening Nigeria’s justice system through the ongoing EU–RoLAC partnership.
Across the country, efforts to combat GBV are also gaining momentum. In Lagos, the State Police Command recently launched the Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu Centre for Gender-Based Violence and Family Support. The centre—established in collaboration with the Gender Unit and supported by government agencies, civil society, and development partners—was inaugurated by the First Lady of Lagos State, Mrs Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, in Ikeja.
The developments reflect Nigeria’s broader push to address both traditional and digital forms of GBV while expanding accessible, survivor-centered services nationwide.
