31% of Nigerian women experience physical violence, report shows
Advocates call for stronger protections as data reveal widespread abuse and limited representation
As Nigeria joined the rest of the world in marking International Women’s Day in 2026, new concerns have emerged about the everyday realities facing millions of women across the country, from violence and economic hardship to limited political representation.
A report highlighted by the Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa has drawn attention to the scale of gender based violence and inequality affecting women, while urging federal and state authorities to adopt stronger policies that protect women and improve their access to basic services.
In a statement issued to mark the global event, the organisation said the theme of this year’s International Women’s Day, “Give to Gain,” reflects the crucial role women play in sustaining families, communities, and the broader economy, even as many continue to face structural barriers that limit their safety and opportunities.
The report highlighted the continued prevalence of violence against women in Nigeria, citing findings from the Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey.
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According to the survey, about 31 percent of Nigerian women between the ages of 15 and 49 have experienced physical violence at some point in their lives, while about nine percent report having faced sexual violence.
Available data also show that more than 10,326 cases of gender based violence were reported between January and September 2025.
Civil society organisations have also raised concerns about growing reports of femicide in the country, urging authorities to strengthen prevention measures and ensure accountability for offenders.
The report further pointed to economic inequality affecting women, noting that many work in low-income or informal sectors where job security and social protection are limited. Women farmers, traders and small business owners often struggle to access credit, land and other resources needed to grow their livelihoods.
Advocates also raised concerns about the low level of women’s representation in politics. Women currently occupy about 3.9 percent of legislative seats in Nigeria. Out of the 469 members of the National Assembly, only 19 are women, including 15 in the House of Representatives and four in the Senate.
The organisation called for stronger policies to protect women and renewed support for reforms aimed at increasing women’s participation in governance, including the proposed Special Seats for Women Bill.
