Over 27,000 Cases of GBV Recorded in Nigeria Amid Rising Economic Hardship -Onibon

***Millions of Nigerian Women to Live on Less Than $2.15 Per Day by 2030

With over 27,698 cases of gender-based violence (GBV) recorded between 2020 and 2023, the 100 Women Lobby Group National Hub has called for urgent action to address the alarming rise in violence against women, compounded by worsening economic conditions.
Speaking at an event marking the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, on a topic; Today’s economy and gender based Violence in Nigeria via Zoom over the weekend, Coordinator Felicia Onibon highlighted the critical need for comprehensive strategies to combat both violence and poverty.
“These figures are not just numbers; they represent the lives of women and girls who have suffered,” Onibon stated.
“Economic hardship has made many women more vulnerable to abuse, and we must act now to change this narrative.”

The event drew attention to the economic challenges facing Nigerian women, with current projections showing that millions will still live on less than $2.15 a day by 2030.
Onibon emphasized that poverty exacerbates women’s vulnerability to violence, noting that many are forced to prioritize their families’ needs over their own, often at great personal cost.
“Women are more food insecure than men, and the constant financial stress leaves them more susceptible to exploitation and abuse,” Onibon explained.

Onibon also criticized the inefficiency of Nigeria’s judicial system in handling GBV cases.
She pointed out that many cases languish in the courts for years, with a disturbingly low conviction rate.
“The lack of accountability within the justice system perpetuates a culture of impunity,” she said. “Survivors often remain silent, knowing that their chances of receiving justice are slim.”

The 100 Women Lobby Group urged policymakers, civil society organizations, and international partners to work together to address the intertwined issues of economic hardship and GBV.
Onibon called for increased investment in women’s economic empowerment and reforms to ensure swift justice for survivors.
“Ending GBV requires a multi-faceted approach,” she said.
“We need to address the root causes, from poverty to weak legal protections, and ensure that women have the resources to rebuild their lives.”

As the 16 Days of Activism continue, the 100 Women Lobby Group remains committed to raising awareness and advocating for systemic change. Onibon concluded by emphasizing the importance of collective action to ensure a future where women and girls are safe, empowered, and economically secure.
“Together, we can break the cycle of violence and poverty,” she said. “The time to act is now.”