Safe spaces: Breaking the cycle of SGBV in northern Nigeria

In northwest Nigeria, ongoing conflict and the prevalence of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) contribute to negative ripple effects on community structures. Harmful traditional patriarchal practices and a culture of silence often prevent women from accessing justice and essential services, leaving them further exposed to cycles of abuse.

To mark the 2024 International Women’s Day with the theme “Inspire inclusion, accelerate progress” International Alert Nigeria and its implementing partners in Kaduna and Zamfara states conducted an awareness campaign emphasising the need to support women when they seek justice. The project promotes the inclusion of women in local justice systems and other decision-making processes to promote their rights and prevent occurrences of SGBV.

Community leaders and first responders alongside representatives from International Alert, Global Peace Development, local government authorities, the Ministry of Human Services, the Ministry of Women Affairs, Kaduna State, Voluntary Aid Initiative and Zamfara State at the launch of the safe space in Kaduna. Photo: International Alert.

In order to inspire inclusion, accelerate progress and ensure that women feel confident to discuss issues that concern them without fear or judgement, International Alert established nine safe spaces in four Local Government Areas (LGAs) where women can access services and information, and collaborate to advocate for their rights.

“Peace is beneficial to all, and we all need peace,” said International Alert Nigeria Country Director Dr Paul Nyulaku-Bemshima, at the launch of one of the safe spaces in Kaduna state. “The safe space is specially designed to support women, girls, and survivors of sexual and gender-based violence in the community so they can share experiences, access vital support services, and contribute to peace in their communities.”

Photo: International Alert.

The safe spaces in Goska and Dangoma communities play a crucial role in fostering social cohesion and strengthening the resilience of the communities. The two communities had been in conflict since 2016 until the project created a platform for the two communities to engage in dialogue leading to their reconciliation. Community first responders have been trained to support women and girls, while referral pathways are continuously being strengthened to ensure safety, confidentiality and dignity of survivors. In consultation with community members and leaders, a safe space manual was developed to guide the safe space facilitators in conducting activities in the safe spaces.

As a symbol of peace, a peace garden was planted between both communities during the launch.

A peace garden being planted to mark the reconciliation of the Goska and Dangoma communities. Photo: International Alert.

“The safe space is specially designed to support women, girls, and survivors of sexual and gender-based violence in the community so they can share experiences, access vital support services, and contribute to peace in their communities.”

Dr Paul Nyulaku-Bemshima, International Alert Nigeria Country Director

At the launch of the safe space in Zamfara state, Hafsatu Kakale, the Director of Gender Affairs at the Ministry of Women Affairs Zamfara State, informed the community of its mandate to protect the rights of women and its collaboration with other agencies in achieving this mandate. She also emphasised that the state is available to address issues relating to abuses of human rights.

Representing the Nigerian Police Force, the Divisional Police Officer DSP Mamza Iyai, commended International Alert on its efforts in fighting SGBV and building peace in Birnin Magaji. Mamza re-assured participants of the commitment from the police in ensuring peace and order in Zamfara state.

Women in both states will continue to benefit from having a safe place where they can discuss issues affecting them, learn from each other, and have a collective voice for advocacy.

Photo: International Alert.


This work was made possible through the “Promoting Stability, Access to Justice, and Accountability project in North-West Nigeria: Samun Adalchi Shine Kwanciyar Hankali (Achieving Justice Promotes Stability)” project, supported by the UK Integrated Security Fund (ISF).