December 2020
The sixth annual conference of the Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs) Network was held from 9-10 December 2020 with support from the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) Programme.
The network facilitates an exchange of ideas, shares lessons learned, and promotes dialogue among SARCs, government institutions, and other stakeholders to strengthen support services provided to survivors of sexual violence. There are currently 29 SARCs in Nigeria, across 17 states and the FCT, many of which were established with support from British Council programmes. The SARCs have assisted over 15,000* victims of sexual assault (over 70% are under 18 years of age).
The conference was attended by civil society and government representatives, including the Vice President of Nigeria: Professor Yemi Osinbajo (SAN) GCON; the Wives of the Governors of Ekiti, Kebbi and Ondo states; and Commissioners of the Ministries of Women Affairs, Justice and Health.
The highlight of the conference was the panel session on 'legislating, investigating and prosecuting sexual crimes – challenges and opportunities', and a visit to the new Awyetu SARC by the First Lady of Ondo State, Her Excellency Arabinrin Betty-Anyanwu Akeredolu.
*Between July 2013 and September 2020“The SARCs go a long way in curbing the menace of rape…”
Vice President of Nigeria: Professor Yemi Osinbajo (SAN) GCON
“We have to galvanise action in our respective states, so that we end violence against women.”
The First Lady of Ondo State, Her Excellency Betty Akeredolu
The British Council Nigeria programmes have pioneered the establishment of SARCs across the country. Find out more here
