Why Nigerian govt should take GBV frameworks seriously – Igbuzor

A public affairs analyst and Director, Centre for African Centre for Leadership, Strategy and Development, Centre LSD, Dr Otive Igbuzor, has explained why government at all levels should take gender-based violence frameworks seriously.

Igbuzor spoke in a statement on Tuesday amid reports that 35 per cent of Nigerian women have experienced physical violence, and many more face emotional, sexual or economic abuse.

He called on the government to integrate male engagement into national and state-level GBV prevention frameworks.

“It is about creating a Nigeria where everyone—man, woman, or child—can live free from fear and discrimination. Let history record that in our generation, Nigerian men chose the path of equality—and in doing so, we transformed our nation for good.

“Men and women across Nigeria—and indeed Africa—can now register, learn, interact, and get certified as male feminists from anywhere.

“Gender-based violence remains one of the most pervasive human rights violations in Nigeria. Reports indicate that over 35% of Nigerian women have experienced physical violence, and many more face emotional, sexual, or economic abuse.

“We cannot end GBV by focusing on women alone. Men must be part of the solution—not as spectators, but as active champions of justice, equality, and nonviolence,” he stated.