The Federal Government has called for a coordinated national response to prevent conflict-related sexual violence, protect vulnerable persons and ensure that survivors receive justice, healthcare and psychosocial support.

Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Sulaiman-Ibrahim, made the call in Abuja on Saturday in a statement to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict.

She said sexual violence associated with insecurity, terrorism, armed conflict and violent extremism remained one of the most serious threats faced by communities affected by crises.

The minister said the crime leaves survivors with long-term physical, emotional and psychological trauma, while also damaging families, disrupting communities and slowing efforts toward peace, reconciliation and recovery.

Sulaiman-Ibrahim said women and girls were disproportionately affected by conflict-related sexual violence, though men and boys could also be victims and often faced stigma and difficulty in accessing help.

She described the issue as more than a humanitarian concern, saying it also undermines national security, social unity and sustainable development.

The minister called for closer cooperation among security agencies, courts, schools, health facilities and social welfare institutions to improve prevention, reporting, protection and response systems across the country.

She also urged traditional rulers and religious leaders to promote peaceful coexistence, uphold human dignity and support efforts to protect persons at risk within their communities.

Sulaiman-Ibrahim called on civil society groups and development partners to expand public awareness, reinforce prevention programmes and improve services for survivors.

She urged parents and caregivers to instil empathy, respect and peaceful values in children, saying strong family structures could help prevent abuse, exploitation, violence and radicalisation.

The minister appealed to Nigerians to remain alert and report cases of sexual abuse, trafficking, exploitation and other forms of violence to relevant authorities.

She also called on actors in the creative sector, including filmmakers, musicians, broadcasters, content creators and social media influencers, to use their platforms to challenge harmful social practices and promote messages that reject violence and discrimination.

Sulaiman-Ibrahim reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to supporting survivors through access to justice, medical care and psychosocial services.

She said more investment was needed in shelters, Sexual Assault Referral Centres, legal aid, research and stronger coordination among institutions responsible for preventing and responding to violence.

The minister said the protection of women, children and other vulnerable groups must remain a key national priority, urging Nigerians to stand with survivors and work together to build safer, more inclusive and peaceful communities.