Organisations call for urgent action to address sexual harassment

The Alliance for Africa (AFA) and the Committee for Gender Directors in Nigerian Universities (CGDNU) are calling for immediate action to combat sexual harassment in Nigerian tertiary institutions.

Executive Director of AFA, Iheoma Obibi, at a news conference on Sunday in Abuja, described sexual harassment as a violation of human rights and a betrayal of the duty of care owed to students by their institutions.

She called on the Federal Government to prioritise the passage of the Sexual Harassment Bill.

According to her, a recent survey conducted by AFA and CGDNU revealed that 63 per cent of female students reported experiencing sexual harassment.

Obibi emphasised the need for universities to adopt and enforce zero-tolerance policies against sexual harassment.

The Coordinator of CGDNU, Prof. Ufioma Awhefeada, urged the National Assembly to pass the sexual harassment bill into law.

She described the issue as relevant, saying it affected students’ academic studies and output in society.

Other experts who spoke emphasised the need for functional policy documents, advocacy, and support systems for survivors.

They also called for anonymous reporting of sexual harassment and encouraged victims to speak out.

“The issue of sexual harassment in Nigerian universities requires immediate attention and action.

“It is essential to create harassment-free campuses and support survivors.”