The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has called for zero tolerance for gender-based violence (GBV) in schools and communities, warning that violence undermines young people’s wellbeing and Nigeria’s development.
The UN agency made the call during a sensitisation programme on the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law held at the Abubakar Tatari Ali Polytechnic in Bauchi. UNFPA officials urged students, educators and community members to reject violence and strengthen mechanisms for reporting abuse.
Speaking at the event, UNFPA Bauchi Gender and Reproductive Health Analyst and Coordinator, Deborah Tabara, said protecting young people from violence should be central to development efforts.
“We are the reproductive health arm of the United Nations. Our mission is to ensure that every pregnancy is wanted, every child is safe, and every young person achieves their potential,” Tabara said.
She described gender-based violence as both a social and development issue, stressing that it can affect people regardless of gender or whether the abuse occurs in public or private spaces.
“Tolerance for gender-based violence must be zero,” Tabara said, urging students and lecturers to take responsibility for preventing abuse and speaking out when incidents occur.
The campaign is significant because GBV can affect victims’ education, health, safety and future opportunities. Recent research on school-related GBV in sub-Saharan Africa identified physical, sexual and psychological violence as persistent concerns and highlighted the importance of stronger policies, reporting mechanisms and community involvement.
Bauchi officials also urged students to reject sexual exploitation and use available reporting channels. The polytechnic said it has a gender and sexual harassment committee and would take disciplinary and legal action against offenders.
The latest campaign forms part of wider efforts in Nigeria to strengthen prevention, accountability and survivor-centred responses to violence against women and girls. UN Women reported that several Nigerian institutions have adopted GBV prevention policies, while other institutions have strengthened survivor-support services.
