By Prosper Mene
A new report has revealed alarming levels of gender-based violence (GBV) in Nigerian tertiary institutions, with 70% of female students and 30% of male students reporting they have experienced at least one form of GBV on campus.
The findings come from a National Campus Climate Baseline Survey on Sexual Harassment in public tertiary institutions, conducted by Alliances for Africa (AfA) in collaboration with the Centre for Gender Studies at Kaduna State University (KASU). The survey covered six federal and six state universities across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones and was unveiled as part of activities marking International Women’s Day 2026.
The report also highlighted that 63% of female staff and 37% of male staff have experienced GBV on campus. Forms of violence include sexual misconduct (such as harassment and “sex for marks”), physical abuse, psychological/emotional violence, and other forms of intimidation.
“These numbers paint a disturbing picture of the campus environment,” a representative from AfA noted during the report’s presentation. The survey shows that GBV affects both genders, though female students and staff remain disproportionately impacted.
Widespread Problem
The baseline survey aimed to assess the prevalence of sexual harassment and broader GBV in higher education. It revealed that such incidents occur frequently, often perpetrated by fellow students, lecturers, and non-academic staff. Many victims reportedly face barriers to reporting due to fear of retaliation, stigma, or lack of effective institutional mechanisms.
Experts say the high prevalence points to deep-rooted issues, including unequal power dynamics, weak enforcement of anti-GBV policies, and a campus culture that sometimes normalizes certain forms of misconduct.
Calls for Action
Stakeholders are urging university authorities, government bodies, and civil society to take urgent steps. Recommendations include:
Stronger anti-sexual harassment policies with clear sanctions.
Establishment of confidential reporting systems and survivor support services.
Mandatory training and sensitization programs for students and staff.
Regular monitoring and evaluation of campus safety measures.
The report calls for a “whole-institution approach” to prevention, emphasizing that safe learning environments are essential for academic success and national development.
Advocates stress that addressing GBV is not just a gender issue but a fundamental human rights and educational quality concern.
As one activist put it: “No student should have to endure violence or harassment simply to obtain an education.”
The full report is expected to guide policy interventions and further research into creating safer campuses across Nigeria.
