Stakeholders have called for a shift towards a survivor-centred justice system to address barriers hindering access to justice for victims of gender-based violence (GBV) in Nigeria.
The call was made during the 2026 International Women’s Day commemoration organised by the Federal Ministry of Justice in Abuja.
The event, themed “Equal Justice for Women and Girls in Nigeria: Strengthening Inclusive Gender-Responsive Justice Systems,” brought together policymakers, development partners, and civil society actors to examine gaps within the justice system.
The programme, supported by UN Women and United Nations Population Fund, featured panel discussions focused on improving justice pathways for GBV survivors.
Speaking during a panel session titled “From Reporting to Redress: Confronting Systemic Barriers in GBV Justice Pathways,” participants highlighted persistent challenges across the justice chain, including weak institutional response and limited support for survivors.
They noted that access to justice for GBV survivors goes beyond legal processes, describing it as a social, economic, and human rights issue requiring a holistic response.
According to discussants, existing systems often fail survivors at different stages—from reporting cases to obtaining redress—underscoring the need for reforms that prioritise the needs and safety of victims.
The stakeholders emphasised that justice systems must transition from institution-centred approaches to survivor-centred frameworks that ensure victims are heard, protected, and empowered to seek justice without fear.
They also called for strengthened collaboration among justice institutions, improved awareness, and policies that promote inclusive and gender-responsive systems capable of delivering effective outcomes for women and girls.