Gender-based violence (GBV) remains one of the most widespread human rights issues globally, with women and girls being the most affected. According to global reports, one in every three women experiences violence at some point in her life, emphasizing the urgent need for proactive and coordinated efforts.
By Aisha M. Kudu
The 1993 United Nations Declaration on the Elimination of Violence Against Women defines such violence as any act that causes physical, sexual, or psychological harm to women. This includes rape, domestic abuse, sexual harassment, female genital mutilation (FGM), and child marriage. These forms of abuse are often rooted in social, economic, and cultural structures.
In Nigeria, the prevalence of GBV continues to raise concerns. Data from the National Demographic and Health Survey show that nearly 31% of women aged 15 to 49 have experienced physical violence. Even more alarming is the statistic that children between the ages of 0 and 14 make up 60% of reported rape victims, revealing a disturbing trend that demands urgent attention.
Olasunkanmi Kalejaiye, Executive Director of the Global Promoters Community Initiative in Niger State, identified poverty as a major factor driving GBV. He noted that while women and girls are disproportionately affected, men and boys are not entirely immune. He said economic hardship increases women’s vulnerability, often forcing them into dependence on abusive partners or guardians. Cultural and social norms contribute to sustaining harmful practices that silence victims, he added.
In Niger State, GBV has been on the increase in recent years. This is according to Mrs. Mary Yisa, Director of Planning, Research, and Statistics at the State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development. She said over 1,000 cases of violence against women and girls were recorded in 2024 alone, attributing the increase partly to greater awareness and reporting, driven by state-wide sensitization campaigns involving media outreach, market engagements, and traditional leadership participation.
To address the issue, the state government established the Gender-Based Violence Management Committee, chaired by the First Lady. The committee leads the implementation of strategic policies, including the domestication of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act in 2020 and the enforcement of the Child Rights Law. These frameworks are supported by newly established family courts, which aim to deliver timely justice.
Despite all the progress, several challenges hinder the fight against GBV. Mrs. Yisa pointed out that cultural resistance remains a significant barrier. In many communities, traditional beliefs reinforce gender inequality, making it difficult for survivors to come forward. Fear of stigma and the potential impact on family reputation often silences victims.
Funding is another critical concern. Survivors like Justina, a 20-year-old who fled abuse while caring for her child, now live in a Minna orphanage with her own baby. Support for her and others, like Sa’adatu, who escaped forced marriage and abuse, is limited due to resource constraints. Mrs. Yisa mentioned that the government plans to seek dedicated budget allocations for survivor support, including empowerment and education programs.
Traditional leaders have a vital role to play in this effort. This is as the Hakimin Tutungo Paiko, Alhaji Musa Abdullahi Paiko, acknowledged their duty as custodians of tradition to challenge harmful norms. He emphasized that, through their influence, traditional rulers can help shift societal attitudes and promote respect for the rights of women and girls.
As the state and civil society intensify their efforts, it is essential to foster a culture of accountability and protection. Every individual, institution, and community must be involved in ensuring the safety and dignity of all. The fight against gender-based violence is not one for a few; it is a shared responsibility that requires sustained commitment across all levels of society.
Kudu sent in this piece from Minna, Niger State.
