UN Women Says Security Challenge Has Exacerbated GBV ln Nigeria

Ms. Beatrice Eyong, United Nations Women Representative to Nigeria and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), has expressed concern that security challenges caused by armed conflict, insurgency, banditry, and kidnappings across the country have exacerbated the prevalence of gender-based violence (GBV) in Nigeria.

In her welcome address to the Convening of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) on Assessing the EVAW and GEWE Landscape in Nigeria on Thursday, Eyong stated that “we are confronted with the harsh reality that gender-based violence continues to be a pervasive and deeply rooted problem in our society.” It affects women and girls of all ages, backgrounds, and walks of life, denying them fundamental rights and liberties. It violates human rights, impedes development, and endangers peace and security.”

She stated, “As practitioners, we are all very familiar with the statistics, but we must never lose sight of the fact that each number represents a life.” A life with goals, potential, and value.

“Globally, an estimated 736 million women—nearly one in every three—have experienced physical and/or sexual intimate partner violence, non-partner sexual violence, or both at least once in their lives.” By the age of 15, 33% of Nigerian women had experienced physical violence. Similarly, data from the Mirabel Centre in Lagos show that 81 per cent of reported cases of sexual assault between 2013 and 2019 were against children, with 67 per cent of the perpetrators known.

“In Nigeria, these staggering statistics have worsened due to security challenges posed by armed conflict, insurgency, banditry, and kidnappings across the country. Furthermore, the recent devaluation of the local currency, high inflation, and the slow recovery from global economic shocks caused by COVID-19 have all contributed to an increase in the prevalence of GBV. Furthermore, women’s voices continue to be marginalised, with Nigeria having the lowest level of female representation in politics. Unfortunately, this situation hurts the gender profile of Nigeria.”

Eyong insisted, “Today’s convening provides us with an opportunity to take stock of our achievements in the last five (5) years, identify gaps and challenges, and explore new strategies and partnerships to accelerate progress towards ending violence against women and promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment.” This is especially true given the significant investment made by the EU-UN Spotlight Initiative to end violence against women and girls. What lessons have we learned, and how can we maintain our gains?”

She explained that UN Women, with support from the Ford Foundation, is implementing the Traditional and Cultural Leaders for Ending GBV by Advancing Advocacy, Policy, and Social Norms Change in Nigeria and West Africa (LEAP). To end GBV, this intervention emphasises prevention, norm and practice transformation, and the engagement of influential cultural leaders. This is critical because GBV is based on unequal power systems and social structures.

She did, however, tell the participants: “Your insights, expertise, and experiences are invaluable as we work together to create a more just, equal, and violence-free society for all.”

“I encourage you to actively participate in the discussions, share your knowledge and best practices, and engage in positive dialogue with your peers and partners. Let us use this platform to reaffirm our commitment to the cause, learn from one another, and strengthen our collective efforts to achieve our shared goals.”