Nigerian Government Urges Action Against Gender-Based Violence

At the 2026 Gender and Inclusion Summit (GS-26) in Abuja, Mrs Esuabana Nko Asanye, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, urged for immediate action on gender-based violence (GBV). She emphasized that Nigeria's response should focus on effective policy implementation, inter-institutional coordination, and survivor-centered accountability.

Asanye highlighted the Ministry's social policy reforms, including the National Boy Child Policy 2026, aimed at fostering respect and equality among boys to prevent violence. Ms Beatrice Eyong from UN Women and Mrs Patience Ekeoba noted that GBV is a significant barrier to development, affecting women and girls both offline and online.

Dr Kemi DaSilva-Ibru, Founder of WARIF, pointed out that while progress has been made through various laws and initiatives, challenges such as declining awareness and economic dependence persist. She called for practical actions to enhance prevention, protection, and justice for survivors, stressing the need for sustained commitment to address these issues.