Niger State has recorded a staggering number of rape and gender-based violence (GBV) cases, highlighting the need for urgent action to address this crisis. According to recent reports, over 1,500 cases of GBV have been documented in the state over the past three years, with a significant portion of these cases occurring in 2025.
Key Statistics
- *Over 1,500 GBV cases recorded*: Niger State has seen a surge in GBV cases, with more than 1,500 incidents reported in less than three years.
- *1,000 cases documented in one year*: A local organization, Women Advocacy, Research, and Documentation Center (WARDC), reported 1,000 cases of SGBV in Niger State between 2023 and 2024.
- *Low conviction rate*: Despite the high number of cases, only a few have resulted in convictions, with WARDC reporting just eight convictions out of 1,000 cases ¹ ².
Impact on Victims
- *Physical and emotional trauma*: GBV victims in Niger State suffer from physical injuries, emotional distress, and social stigma.
- *Fear of reporting*: Many victims are hesitant to report cases due to fear of retaliation, stigmatization, or lack of support.
Government Response
- *Commitment to protecting victims*: The Niger State government has expressed commitment to protecting GBV victims and punishing offenders.
- *Call for strict enforcement of VAPP Act*: Advocates are urging strict enforcement of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act to ensure justice for victims and hold perpetrators accountable ³.
Recommendations
- *Increased funding*: WARDC is calling for increased investments in GBV programs and services to support victims and prevent further cases.
- *Gender-responsive budgeting*: The organization is also advocating for gender-responsive budgeting to ensure that the state's budget addresses the specific needs of women and girls ².
