A new National Campus Climate Baseline Survey on Sexual Harassment in Nigerian tertiary institutions has revealed alarming levels of gender-based violence, with 70 percent of female students and 30 percent of male students reporting that they have experienced at least one form of abuse on campus.
The findings were disclosed by Professor Igot Ofem, Acting Director of the Centre for Response and Prevention of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (CRPSGBV), during a media briefing at Lagos State University (LASU), Ojo, to mark International Women’s Day 2026.
The survey, conducted across 12 universities—six federal and six state institutions spanning Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones—was carried out by the Committee of Gender Studies Directors in partnership with Alliance for Africa (AfA) and supported by Co-Impact.
According to Ofem, the study examined various forms of sexual misconduct, including harassment, dating violence, and institutional responses to such cases.
“Key findings show that 70 percent of female students and 30 percent of male students have experienced at least one form of gender-based violence on campus. Among staff, 63 percent of females and 37 percent of males reported similar experiences,” she said.
The report identified sexual misconduct—such as unwanted touching, inappropriate comments, verbal abuse, and stalking—as the most prevalent form of harassment, affecting over 42 percent of respondents.
Ofem also highlighted troubling patterns within institutions, including cases where students are transferred, stripped of academic privileges, or coerced into sexual relationships in exchange for academic favors. She noted that many victims remain silent due to a lack of trust in reporting systems and fear of stigma.
The survey has called for urgent reforms, urging universities nationwide to establish independent sexual harassment response units, strengthen policies, and create confidential and survivor-friendly reporting channels.
Commending LASU’s proactive approach, Ofem noted that the university has taken significant steps in addressing gender-based violence. These include establishing a dedicated response centre, integrating GBV awareness into the student handbook, implementing a comprehensive sexual abuse policy, and introducing GBV prevention as a compulsory General Nigerian Studies (GNS) course for students.
In a statement delivered on her behalf, LASU Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, stressed the importance of creating a safe and supportive environment for all students.
“Every woman and girl has a right to safety, dignity, and mental wellbeing. Yet, many suffer violations, often without even recognizing it, and when they do, fear and stigma prevent them from speaking out,” she said.
She emphasized that justice must go beyond legal frameworks to include building trust and ensuring survivors feel heard and protected.
“The rights of women and girls are fundamental. They are not optional or secondary—they must be upheld in every space, including our universities,” she added.
The report underscores a growing need for collective action among institutions, policymakers, and stakeholders to combat gender-based violence and ensure safer campuses across Nigeria.