The Federal Government has called on Nigerian universities to set up Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs) to address incidents of sexual harassment and provide swift support to survivors.
Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim, made the appeal on Monday at a national summit in Abuja, organized by Alliances for Africa (AFA). She emphasized the Tinubu administration’s commitment to gender equality and zero-tolerance for gender-based violence, citing efforts like the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act and the Sexual Harassment Prohibition Bill.
Suleiman-Ibrahim noted that while 47 SARCs currently operate across 22 states and the FCT, this is insufficient. She urged university leadership to establish additional centres to ensure timely intervention for cases within their campuses.
Prof. Ufuoma Awhefeada, Coordinator of the Committee of Gender Directors in Nigerian Universities, highlighted sexual harassment as a pervasive issue in tertiary institutions, affecting students, staff, and overall institutional performance. She called for collaboration among universities, government agencies, and civil society to create safer learning environments.
Hon. Akin Rotimi Jr., representing the House of Representatives, assured that the 10th Assembly remains committed to addressing sexual harassment in higher institutions. He reaffirmed the legislature’s support for initiatives aimed at fostering accountability and respect on campuses.
