UniAbuja Enhances Framework to Combat Sexual Harassment

The University of Abuja is taking steps to strengthen its reporting framework for sexual harassment cases within the university community. Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academics, Prof. Rosemari Udeozor, announced this initiative during a press briefing organized by the Centre for Gender Studies and Youth Advancement to mark International Women’s Day 2026.

The university plans to launch a national campus climate baseline survey on sexual harassment in tertiary institutions in Nigeria. This survey, coordinated by Alliance Africa, aims to provide evidence for institutional reforms.

The university senate has mandated a committee to develop comprehensive guidelines for reporting, investigating, and sanctioning sexual harassment cases. The proposed structure will allow complaints to be reported at departmental and faculty levels, ensuring a central committee handles them.

A survey found that 70% of female students and 63% of female staff reported experiencing gender-based violence on campus. Dr. Iheoma Obibi emphasized the need for stronger institutional mechanisms and an independent sexual harassment response unit.