In a significant move to tackle sexual harassment and gender-based violence in Nigeria’s tertiary institutions, the Federal Government has directed universities to establish Sexual Assault Referral Centres on campuses.
The Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim, made this announcement during a national summit in Abuja organised by Alliances for Africa in collaboration with the Committee on Gender Directors in Nigeria, marking the commencement of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign.
The directive comes amidst heightened national attention on sexual misconduct in universities, following a recent case at the Federal University Oye Ekiti.
A female student, Ramota Olahanloye, was cleared to graduate after allegations that a lecturer, Dr. Anthony Agbegbedia, deliberately failed her final-year courses when she refused his alleged demands for sexual favours. Her grades were eventually re-marked, allowing her to graduate.
Addressing these recurring issues, Suleiman-Ibrahim emphasised the need for universities to provide support mechanisms for survivors.
“I call on university leadership to prioritise the establishment of SARCs to ensure timely intervention and support for survivors within their communities,” she said, adding that only 47 such centres currently exist across 22 states and the Federal Capital Territory, a number she described as grossly inadequate.
The minister reiterated the government’s commitment to promoting gender equality, eradicating gender-based violence, and creating safer learning environments under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“The President has zero tolerance for gender-based violence,” she affirmed.
She also announced plans to collaborate with the Federal Ministry of Education, university managements, and other stakeholders to launch a nationwide campaign against sexual harassment.
“High-profile cases and exposés such as the BBC Africa Eye documentary, Sex for Grades have underscored the pervasive nature of this issue. It is time for action,” she said.
The summit highlighted the importance of survivor-centred support systems, effective reporting mechanisms, and swift disciplinary measures to curb these acts of abuse.
Suleiman-Ibrahim called on universities to take proactive steps to protect students and ensure a culture of accountability within their institutions.
As the 16 Days of Activism campaign continues, stakeholders are optimistic that this directive will mark a turning point in addressing sexual misconduct in Nigerian tertiary institutions.
