The Ministry of Women’s Affairs dismissed the allegations that abandoned survivors of sexual and gender violence (SGBV) in the department’s care.
Naija News Report to the Minister of Women’s Affairs Ima Suleiman BrahimThe allegation is misleading and aims to undermine the structured and ongoing efforts to empower and protect women.
A statement signed by the permanent secretary of the ministry Maryam KeshinroMrs. Ibrahim explained, taking care of SGBV It requires state and federal efforts.
She added that the ministry’s commitment to survivors is unwavering, evidence-based and outcome-driven, reflected in its immediate intervention, long-term support systems and broader system reforms.
The minister asked Nigerians and the media to verify all claims on social media to ensure authenticity.
It reads:To clarify, the ministry’s role in the SGBV intervention is guided by a constitutional mandate that will place the state government through its respective women’s affairs departments responsible for the management of SGBV shelters and survivor support systems. The FMWA operates only a temporary shelter in the Federal Capital Region (FCT), designated as an emergency high-risk case requiring immediate federal intervention.
“In addition to emergency shelters, the ministry has taken a positive attitude toward survivor support. In 2024, the FMWA conducted a national needs assessment to identify gaps in survivor services that understand targeted interventions and strengthened collaboration with state authorities.
“The ministry has taken concrete steps to support survivors and strengthen the SGBV response system in Nigeria. On December 14, 2024, Honorary Minister of Women’s Affairs, Haji. Imaan Sulaiman Ibrahim personally visited the FCT shelter, providing psychosocial counseling, allowances, food supplies and sanitation kits to six survivors and their families. Two survivors with critical health needs received emergency medical services, while others received customized support packages to ensure long-term stability.
“In addition, the ministry conducted a follow-up review of particularly vulnerable survivors on March 5, 2025, ensuring additional temporary accommodation, adding financial support, designing tailored rehabilitation programs, and assigning dedicated case workers.
“The ministry is also committed to finalizing SGBYV’s National Action Plan, which will be adopted in the second quarter of 20025 and will work with experts, NAPTIP and civil society organizations to standardize housing operations and survivor care programs.
“The allegations raised in popular videos are totally wrong, distorting facts and undermining progress in resolving gender-based violence in Nigeria. Each case draws the attention of the Ministry, is urgent and caring, and strictly validates every claim. Nigerians, the media and all stakeholders are encouraged to seek factual information directly from the Ministry.
“The FMWA’s commitment to survivors is unwavering, evidence-based and outcome-driven, reflected in its immediate intervention, long-term support systems and broader systemic reforms.”
