Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has commissioned the Nchedo Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) located within the Aba General Hospital, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to combating gender-based violence (GBV) across the state.
The commissioning of the centre marks a major milestone in the state’s justice and social protection framework, reflecting collaboration between the government, development partners, and civil society organisations to eliminate GBV and protect the rights and dignity of citizens.
Speaking at the inauguration on Wednesday, February 18, Governor Otti described sexual violence, child abuse, and assault as aberrations that are alien to the values of society. He stressed the need for collective responsibility and value reorientation to eradicate such crimes.
“We must get to a point where centres like this become unnecessary because the behaviour they address no longer exists. As we pursue technological and social advancement, we must also return to enduring values that uphold dignity, respect, and human decency,” the Governor said.
Dr. Otti expressed appreciation to the Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim, for her presence and leadership in advancing protection services nationwide. He also commended the First Lady of Abia State, Mrs. Priscilla Chidinma Otti, for her strong advocacy against gender-based violence, as well as the Commissioners for Justice; Women Affairs; Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection; and Health for their collaborative efforts in delivering the project.
The Governor acknowledged the European Union’s initial one-year funding support for the centre and expressed optimism about sustained partnership. While noting calls for additional facilities, he announced plans to establish two more centres as part of a broader strategy to reduce and ultimately eradicate GBV in the state.
Governor Otti further directed immediate action to address infrastructural challenges within the Aba General Hospital premises, particularly facilities connected to the School of Nursing. He instructed the Special Adviser on Health to submit a comprehensive proposal for upgrades, emphasising that all public institutions must meet the administration’s standards of excellence.
Referencing ongoing improvements at Abia State University, the Governor assured that similar transformation would soon be visible at the hospital. “We cannot allow our children to study or receive care in environments that are not decent and presentable,” he stated.
In her remarks, the Minister of Women Affairs described GBV as a widespread and underreported threat to human security, public health, and national stability. She disclosed that Nigeria has over 50 Sexual Assault Referral Centres across 24 states, which have supported more than 58,000 survivors.
Hajiya Suleiman-Ibrahim noted that the establishment of the Nchedo SARC represents a strategic and confidential response model designed to improve justice outcomes and promote survivors’ healing. She reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to policy reforms, institutional strengthening, and women’s economic empowerment initiatives aimed at addressing the root causes of violence, while calling for an end to silence, stigma, and impunity.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection, Mrs. Ngozi Blessing Felix, described the centre as a landmark intervention that provides coordinated, survivor-centred services. She explained that the facility offers 24-hour access to emergency medical care, forensic examinations, counselling, legal guidance, and social support under one roof, thereby reducing trauma and improving access to justice.
She added that the centre complements ongoing justice-sector reforms, including the Sexual Offenders Register and strengthened prosecution systems, underscoring the state’s commitment to ensuring that no survivor stands alone.
The World Bank Representative and Task Team Leader for the Nigeria for Women Project, Mr. Michael Ilesanmi, commended the Abia State Government for its strong commitment to gender equality and women’s economic empowerment.
Dr. Danladi Plang of IDEA disclosed that more than 50 SARCs nationwide had supported over 50,000 survivors as of December 2025. He advocated sustained funding, replication of the model across states, stronger prosecution mechanisms, and the establishment of shelters for survivors requiring safe accommodation.
Also speaking, Mr. Ruben Alba Aguilera of the European Union Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS revealed that the EU has invested over ₦2 billion in supporting Sexual Assault Referral Centres nationwide. He stressed the importance of prevention, protection, and sustainability beyond donor funding.
The event was attended by key stakeholders and senior government officials.
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