UN Women Launch Anthology Highlighting Justice Struggles of Nigerian Women
Oluwatobi Adu 
ABUJA, Nigeria – UN Women and the South Saharan Social Development Organisation launch an anthology documenting the experiences of Nigerian women seeking justice for gender-based violence (GBV).
The publication, titled “The Cost of Justice: Women’s Voice of Resilience in Nigeria,” was unveiled Friday in Abuja as part of activities marking International Women’s Day 2026.
The anthology captures the stories of women navigating Nigeria’s justice system and highlights the barriers survivors face in seeking legal redress.
UN Women Country Representative Beatrice Eyong says the publication reflects the voices and resilience of survivors.
“For many women and girls, especially survivors of GBV, justice remains difficult to access,” Eyong says.
She notes that survivors often encounter financial barriers, lengthy court processes, social stigma and limited legal support.
According to available data, 27,698 sexual and gender-based violence cases were reported in Nigeria between 2020 and 2023.
Eyong says that although legal frameworks and awareness campaigns have improved, conviction rates remain low due to gaps in investigation and prosecution.
The Executive Director of SSDO, Stanley Ikechukwu, explains that the anthology draws inspiration from the organisation’s Sister Guardian Initiative, a community-based protection network supporting survivors.
He says the book presents 15 stories and artistic reflections illustrating the struggles women face when pursuing justice.
Officials call for reforms to reduce legal barriers and strengthen protection mechanisms for women and girls.
Government representatives and development partners emphasise the need for stronger collaboration, institutional reforms and expanded survivor support services to address gender-based violence in Nigeria.
About the Author
Koko Maxwella 
Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 
Oluwafunbi Bello