The Federal Ministry of Women Affairs has firmly rejected recent allegations suggesting that survivors of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) under its care have been neglected.
The claims, circulated in a viral video, are misleading and undermine the Ministry’s structured efforts to protect and support survivors.
Clarifying the Ministry’s Role in SGBV Support
It is important to emphasize that, by constitutional mandate, state governments are responsible for managing SGBV shelters and survivor support services through their respective State Ministries of Women Affairs. The Federal Ministry operates only one temporary shelter in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), specifically for urgent, high-risk cases requiring immediate federal intervention. This facility serves as a transitional space, not a permanent residence, ensuring survivors receive immediate care before reintegration into appropriate state or community-based systems.
Ongoing Efforts to Support Survivors
In 2024, the FMWA conducted a nationwide needs assessment in Kano, Lagos, Nasarawa, and the FCT to identify service gaps. This assessment informed the Ministry’s targeted interventions, allowing resources to be allocated where needed most and strengthening collaboration with state authorities.
Key Interventions by the Ministry
1. Direct Shelter Support
• On December 14, 2024, the Honourable Minister of Women Affairs visited the FCT shelter with a multidisciplinary team.
• Survivors and their families received psychosocial counseling, stipends, food supplies, and hygiene kits.
• Two survivors with critical health needs were provided urgent medical attention.
• Others were given economic grants and housing assistance for long-term stability.
• By January 2025, all survivors had successfully transitioned out of the shelter under full reintegration plans.
2. Follow-Up and Extended Support
• On March 5, 2025, the Ministry conducted a follow-up review for a particularly vulnerable survivor.
• In response, the Ministry secured temporary accommodation, increased financial aid, designed a tailored rehabilitation plan, and assigned a dedicated caseworker for continued support.
Broader Measures to Address SGBV
• Strengthening Systems and Policies
• Finalizing a National Action Plan on SGBV, set for adoption in Q2 2025.
• Collaborating with NAPTIP, experts, and civil society organizations to standardize shelter operations and survivor care protocols.
• Expanding federal shelter capacity and improving training for state-level staff.
• Emergency and Operational Support
• Seeking additional emergency and operational funds to address urgent SGBV cases.
• Reviewing legislation, including the VAPP Act, to enhance legal protections for survivors.
Reaffirming the Ministry’s Commitment
The claims made in the circulated video are entirely false, distorting the facts and undermining progress in tackling gender-based violence in Nigeria. Every case reported to the Ministry is treated with urgency, and all claims are thoroughly investigated.
The FMWA urges the public, media, and stakeholders to seek accurate information directly from the Ministry. The Ministry’s commitment to SGBV survivors remains steadfast, reflected in its immediate interventions, long-term support systems, and broader policy reforms.
