FG Advocates for Action Against Sexual Violence in Nigeria

On the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict, Hajiya Sulaiman Ibrahim, the Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, urged a whole-society approach to address sexual violence in Nigeria. She highlighted that conflict-related sexual violence poses severe consequences for national security, social cohesion, and development.

Ibrahim noted that women and girls bear the greatest burden of such violence, although men and boys are also affected. She called for coordinated interventions from security agencies, judicial institutions, and community organizations to strengthen prevention and response mechanisms.

Ibrahim emphasized the importance of traditional and religious leaders in promoting peace and respect, and she appealed to parents and caregivers to instill values of empathy and coexistence. The Minister reaffirmed the government's commitment to supporting survivors through access to justice, healthcare, and psychosocial services, while urging Nigerians to report cases of abuse and exploitation to build safer communities.