Public commentator Uduak Okon has identified weak funding, poor interagency collaboration and lack of public involvement as key factors fueling the rise of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence, SGBV, in Nigeria.

Okon made this known in an interview with Uyo Infomedia, following the release of new data by the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons, NAPTIP.

According to NAPTIP’s report covering January to July 2026, 549 SGBV cases were investigated nationwide within the period. The agency also recorded 64 arrests, secured two convictions, and rescued 183 victims.

Okon expressed concern over the figures, noting that the low number of convictions compared to the number of cases investigated points to systemic gaps in the prosecution and justice delivery process.

She explained that SGBV can take different forms, but its impact on victims is often severe and long-lasting. “Sexual and gender-based violence can have lasting psychological effects on victims, including loss of self-confidence and emotional trauma,” she said.

To address the menace, Okon called for increased funding for relevant agencies. She argued that proper funding will strengthen operations, improve investigations and reduce the risk of bribery and other forms of compromise that often undermine cases.

The commentator also stressed the need for stronger collaboration between government agencies and members of the public. According to her, community members play a critical role in reporting cases early and supporting survivors through the justice process.

Okon further urged civil society organisations, traditional institutions and the media to sustain awareness campaigns, while government ensures that survivors receive adequate medical, legal and psychosocial support.

She maintained that eradicating SGBV and other forms of social misconduct will require a collective approach that combines political will, adequate resources and active citizen participation.