We have a disturbing update from Nigeria’s Niger State, where more than 1,000 cases of rape and gender-based violence (GBV) have been reported in just the first seven months of 2025.

The shocking figure was revealed by Mrs. Mary Isa, Director of Planning and GBV Focal Person at the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development. According to Isa, the reported cases were compiled from multiple non-governmental organizations and consolidated on a central data dashboard, which feeds directly into Nigeria’s National GBV Reporting System.

(Quote overlay from Mrs. Mary Isa)

“We’ve been conducting outreach and awareness programmes in markets, mechanic workshops, traditional councils, and schools to help victims come forward and seek justice.”

Despite these outreach efforts, Isa expressed deep concern over low prosecution rates, noting that only a handful of offenders have been apprehended. One key challenge, she said, is a culture of silence, where some parents prefer to resolve rape cases privately, avoiding legal channels in favor of family-level settlements.

In a state-wide effort, the ministry has deployed service providers in all 25 local government areas to receive and respond to abuse cases — ranging from physical and sexual assault to emotional and psychological violence.

Officials stress that tackling gender-based violence requires stronger law enforcement partnerships, community education, and a shift in societal attitudes toward protecting survivors and prosecuting perpetrators.

With over 1,000 victims already recorded this year, the crisis serves as a painful reminder that GBV remains a deeply rooted issue in many communities — and that much more needs to be done to ensure safety, justice, and support for those affected.

SNEWS TV will continue to follow this story as it develops and bring you updates on the government’s response.

Reporting by Ehud Jones.