Minister for Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, along with the Ministry of Women Affairs, has vehemently refuted claims of neglecting and abandoning victims of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) under its care. In a statement released by the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Maryam Keshinro, the ministry addressed the allegations circulating in a viral video, dismissing them as misleading and harmful to the ongoing efforts to protect and empower survivors.
Ministry’s Role in SGBV Interventions
The Federal Ministry of Women Affairs clarified its role in SGBV interventions, highlighting that state governments are primarily responsible for managing SGBV shelters and survivor support systems through their State Ministries of Women Affairs. The Federal Ministry operates a single temporary shelter in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) specifically for urgent, high-risk cases that require immediate federal intervention. This facility serves as a transitional space where survivors receive immediate support before being reintegrated into state or community-based systems.
According to the Permanent Secretary, the Ministry has conducted a comprehensive needs assessment in various states, including Kano, Lagos, Nasarawa, and the FCT, to identify gaps in survivor services. Additionally, efforts have been made to support survivors and strengthen Nigeria’s SGBV response system through direct Shelter Interventions, follow-up and extended support, and systemic strengthening and policy reforms.
Commitment to Survivors
The Ministry emphasized that every case brought to its attention is treated with urgency and care, with claims rigorously verified to ensure accuracy and effectiveness in addressing survivors’ needs. The statement urged Nigerians, the media, and all stakeholders to seek factual information directly from the Ministry, highlighting its unwavering commitment to survivors based on evidence and results.
In conclusion, the Ministry of Women Affairs remains dedicated to protecting and empowering survivors of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence, emphasizing the importance of accurate information and ongoing efforts to strengthen support systems and policy reforms. By dispelling the false claims and reaffirming its commitment, the Ministry aims to foster trust and collaboration in addressing the critical issue of SGBV in Nigeria.