By Muhammad Jamil Abubakar
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the Gombe State Government are partnering to establish a Sexual Abuse Reference Centre (SARC) at the Gombe State Specialist Hospital, aimed at strengthening child protection and response to gender-based violence (GBV).
The Chief of UNICEF Bauchi Field Office, Dr. Nuzhat Rafique, said the centre will provide comprehensive services, including emergency medical care, psychosocial support, legal referrals, and evidence preservation for survivors of sexual violence and domestic abuse.
“Every survivor deserves a safe space for healing and justice. The SARC will address critical gaps in the protection of children and women against violence,” Dr. Rafique stated during a facility tour.
She added that community awareness efforts would be intensified to ensure prompt referral of GBV and child abuse cases.
The establishment of the SARC comes amid growing concerns over violence against children and women in Nigeria.
UNICEF has consistently highlighted that abuse, exploitation, and neglect are severe violations of human rights, calling for coordinated action among government agencies, security forces, healthcare providers, and civil society.
Medical Director of the Gombe State Specialist Hospital, Dr. Sambo Dawa, said the centre would offer integrated services involving healthcare, legal, and social welfare sectors.
“Beyond medical treatment, survivors will have access to legal support, security services, and rehabilitation programs, including psychosocial therapy and economic empowerment initiatives,” he said.
The centre, expected to become operational by May 2025, will also prioritize capacity building, with UNICEF supporting the training of specialized personnel and provision of critical equipment.
Officials from UNICEF, the Gombe State Ministry of Health, Ministry of Women Affairs, and the State Police Command have pledged collaboration to ensure the success of the project.
Dr. Rafique emphasized that protecting children and women requires the active participation of all sectors, including the media, to promote a culture of zero tolerance for abuse.