The European Union (EU) has called on stakeholders, including government agencies, private sectors, civil society, and traditional institutions, to unite in the fight against Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) in Nigeria.
Zissimos Vergos, Deputy Ambassador of the EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, emphasized a whole-society approach as key to addressing SGBV during the 10th Network Conference of Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs) in Abuja. The event, organized by the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) Programme in collaboration with the Ministry of Justice’s SGBV Response Unit, highlighted the need for integrated prevention, protection, and justice for survivors.
“SGBV is not just a women’s issue; it’s a societal issue. Prevention is essential to breaking cycles of violence, while protection ensures survivors’ safety and well-being,” Vergos stated.
He commended the 47 SARCs across 22 states for assisting over 35,500 survivors since 2013 but noted the urgent need for more facilities and increased prosecution of cases.
Minister of Women Affairs, Hajia Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, stressed the importance of sustained advocacy and mobilization to end SGBV, while Attorney General Lateef Fagbemi called for a renewed commitment from stakeholders to combat this persistent challenge.
The EU reaffirmed its dedication to promoting gender equality and supporting Nigeria’s fight against SGBV through funding, partnerships, and advocacy for survivor justice.
