By Prisca Nguzo
Minister of Women Affairs, Hajia Imaan Sulaiman - Ibrahim has assured the commitment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration to championing gender equality principles and addressing all forms of gender-based violence, including sexual harassment eradication especially in tertiary institutions.
The Women Affairs Minister gave the assurance at the National Summit on Addressing Sexual Harassment in Tertiary Institutions in Nigeria organized by Alliances for Africa, AfA in collaboration with the Committee of Gender Directors in Nigeria, CGDN, held in Abuja on Monday.
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She disclosed that the Federal Government recognise the prevalence of Sexual harassment in the tertiary institutions, which according to her, "is a global menace and one of the most pervasive violations of human rights, particularly against women and girls, which effects transcend physical harm, leaving survivors with emotional, psychological, and socio-economic scars."
The Minister who expressed concern that the menace in the universities, undermines trust, deters academic performance, and perpetuates a culture of silence and impunity, stressed on the need for legislation that would enforce strict penalties for offenders and mandate universities to establish preventive measures, clear reporting channels, and survivor support systems.
She said that the FG through her Ministry would partner other stakeholders including the Federal Ministry of Education, universities, and relevant agencies to launch nationwide initiatives to raise awareness about sexual harassment, challenge gender stereotypes, and foster a culture of accountability and respect on campuses.
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Sulaiman - Ibrahim said, "The present administration led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR under the Renewed Hope Agenda is more than ever committed to zero-tolerance against gender-based violence (GBV) through several initiatives, including supporting the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act 2015 and the June 2020 Declaration of a State of Emergency on GBV by the Nigeria Governors Forum.
"The Sexual Harassment Prohibition Bill passed by the 9th Senate in July 2020, specifically addressing misconduct in educational institutions, is another landmark achievement, which the Ministry will continue to advocate for. We will prioritize the establishment of survivor-centered services, including counseling, legal aid, and safe reporting channels, to ensure that victims of sexual harassment are supported and empowered."
"Let me conclude by urging us all to break the culture of silence that allows sexual harassment to thrive. Let us speak up against victim blaming to reduce the trauma they have experienced. Let us hold perpetrators accountable and foster a culture of respect and equality. By addressing sexual harassment, we are protecting human rights, safeguarding education, and ensuring that our campuses fulfill their role as spaces for intellectual, personal growth and development." she said.
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