Rising Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Cases Alarm Gombe State Authorities

In Gombe State, a sharp increase in sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) cases has been reported over the past five years, with 645 survivors treated from 2021 to 2025. Dr.

Sambo Bawa, the Chief Medical Director of Gombe State Specialist Hospital, highlighted that a significant number of survivors were adolescent girls aged 10-14. The state recently launched a Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) to support survivors, with a notable rise in cases each year, reaching 170 in 2025.

The hospital's response to SGBV has evolved over 15 years, with significant improvements since 2021, including the establishment of a dedicated unit and enhanced support for survivors. Dr.

Manassah Daniel Jatau, the Deputy Governor's representative, emphasized the legal framework enacted by the Gombe State House of Assembly to protect women and children. Dr.

Nuzhat Rafiqu of UNICEF stressed the importance of prevention and community awareness to combat SGBV effectively.