The federal government has called for a coordinated national response to end conflict-related sexual violence, urging stakeholders across sectors to strengthen prevention, protection and accountability measures to safeguard vulnerable populations affected by insecurity and armed conflict.
Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, made the call in a statement issued on Saturday in Abuja to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict.
The minister described conflict-related sexual violence as one of the most devastating consequences of terrorism, violent extremism, insurgency and armed conflicts, warning that its effects extend far beyond individual survivors to undermine peace, stability and national development.
According to her, survivors often suffer long-term physical, emotional and psychological trauma, while families and communities face lasting social and economic consequences that hinder recovery and reconciliation efforts.
Sulaiman-Ibrahim noted that women and girls bear the greatest burden of conflict-related sexual violence, although men and boys are also affected and frequently face stigma and barriers in accessing support services.
She stressed that sexual violence in conflict situations constitutes a serious threat to national security, social cohesion and sustainable development, requiring urgent and coordinated intervention from all sectors of society.
The minister called on security agencies, judicial institutions, healthcare providers, educational institutions and social welfare organisations to strengthen collaboration and improve mechanisms for preventing and responding to cases of sexual violence.
She also urged traditional and religious leaders to play more active roles in protecting vulnerable groups, preventing violence and promoting values that encourage peace, dignity and mutual respect.
Sulaiman-Ibrahim further appealed to community-based organisations and development partners to intensify public awareness campaigns, strengthen prevention programmes and expand support services for survivors.
She emphasized the role of parents and caregivers in fostering values of empathy, respect and peaceful coexistence, describing strong family structures as the first line of defence against violence, abuse, exploitation and radicalisation.
The minister urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and promptly report cases of abuse, trafficking, exploitation and other forms of violence, noting that community participation is critical to prevention efforts.
She also challenged stakeholders in the creative industry to use their platforms to combat harmful social norms and promote positive values that reject violence and discrimination.
According to her, filmmakers, musicians, broadcasters, content creators and social media influencers have significant influence in shaping public attitudes and driving behavioural change across society.
Reaffirming the federal government’s commitment to supporting survivors, Sulaiman-Ibrahim said efforts were being intensified to improve access to justice, healthcare and psychosocial services aimed at restoring dignity and promoting healing.
She also advocated increased investment in shelters, Sexual Assault Referral Centres, legal aid services, research programmes and institutional coordination mechanisms to strengthen survivor protection nationwide.
The minister stressed that preventing violence must remain central to national efforts aimed at protecting women, children and other vulnerable groups from abuse, exploitation and conflict-related harm.
She called on Nigerians to stand in solidarity with survivors and work collectively towards building safer communities founded on peace, justice, inclusion and respect for human dignity.
