Over 1,000 cases of rape and Gender-Based Violence (GBV) were recorded in Niger State between January and July 2025.
According to Mrs Mary Isa, Director of Planning and Gender-Based Focal Person at the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development in Minna, the cases were reported from various NGOs and compiled on a central dashboard for tracking and reporting to the National Dashboard.
She explained that the ministry has been working to address this issue through sensitization programmes and collaboration with security agencies.
The director stated, “The ministry has been conducting sensitization programmes in markets, mechanic workshops, Emirate Councils, and schools to raise awareness about GBV and encourage victims to report to relevant authorities.”
She explained that despite the efforts, only a few culprits have been arrested, and aside that, the ministry is facing challenges with parents who prefer to settle rape cases at the family level rather than pursuing legal action.
Isah also explained that the ministry has service providers across the 25 LGs of the state who can receive reports of abuse, including physical, sexual, emotional, and other forms of GBV in the state.
