Kaduna launches toll-free GBV hotlines to tackle underreporting

The Kaduna State Government has introduced three toll-free hotlines aimed at improving the reporting of gender-based violence (GBV) cases and providing quicker access to support services for survivors.

The Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Rabi Salisu, announced the initiative during the Gender-Based Violence Technical Working Group Coordination Meeting held in Kaduna.

According to Salisu, the dedicated lines — 08000070070, 07058890117 and 07058890116 — are part of efforts to strengthen the state’s response to GBV and address the challenge of underreporting.

She said the hotlines would serve as direct channels for victims and witnesses to report incidents and receive immediate assistance.

The commissioner noted that the launch also included a referral directory and referral protocol designed to ensure survivors are linked to healthcare, legal aid, psychosocial support, security services and other welfare interventions.

Salisu described the initiative as a major step toward building a more coordinated and survivor-centred response system across the state.

She said Governor Uba Sani’s administration remains committed to protecting women, children and vulnerable persons through a zero-tolerance policy on all forms of violence.

Despite recording 34 convictions in gender-based violence cases between July 2023 and 2025, Salisu said many incidents still go unreported, limiting efforts to provide justice and support for victims.

She urged residents to take advantage of the newly launched hotlines to report cases promptly, stressing that early reporting would help authorities respond effectively and prevent further abuse.

The commissioner added that Kaduna has continued to rank among the leading states in Nigeria in GBV reporting and prevention efforts, while reaffirming the government’s commitment to strengthening protection and support systems for survivors.