The Federal Government has urged institutions to establish Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs) to address allegations of sexual harassment and ensure prompt action within the university community. Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim, Minister of Women Affairs, made the statement during a national summit on sexual harassment in tertiary education in Nigeria on Monday in Abuja.
Suleiman-Ibrahim identified sexual harassment as a global threat and widespread violation of human rights, particularly for women and girls. She underlined that the consequences of sexual harassment extend beyond physical injury, leaving survivors with emotional, psychological, and socioeconomic scars.
The minister emphasised the current administration’s commitment to zero-tolerance towards gender-based violence through a number of initiatives, including support for the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act 2015 and the Sexual Harassment Prohibition Bill, which was passed by the 9th Senate in July 2020.
Suleiman-Ibrahim reaffirmed her steadfast commitment to advocating gender equality principles and eradicating gender-based violence, including sexual harassment, in all forms. She also underlined the importance of colleges prioritising their students’ safety and well-being by enforcing rules, implementing gender-sensitive frameworks, and developing safe reporting mechanisms.
