Governor Otti Commissions Nchedo Sexual Assault Referral Centre in Aba, Pledges Stronger Fight Against Gender-Based Violence

Aba, Abia State – Governor Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, has officially commissioned the Nchedo Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC), located within the Aba General Hospital, marking a landmark milestone in Abia State’s efforts to combat gender-based violence (GBV).

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony on Wednesday, February 18, Governor Otti reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to ending GBV, describing sexual violence, child molestation, and assault as aberrations alien to the values of Abia society. He emphasized the need for collective responsibility and societal reorientation to eradicate such crimes.

“We must get to a point where centres like this become unnecessary because the behaviour they address no longer exists,” the Governor stated. “While embracing technological and social advancement, we must return to the enduring values that uphold dignity, respect, and human decency.”

Governor Otti expressed gratitude to the Honourable Minister for Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim, for her presence and leadership in advancing protection services nationwide. He also commended First Lady Mrs. Priscilla Chidinma Otti for her passionate advocacy against GBV, as well as the Commissioners for Justice, Women Affairs, Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection, and Health for their collaborative efforts in delivering the project.

The Governor acknowledged the European Union for its initial one-year funding commitment to the centre and expressed optimism for extended partnership. He announced that the State plans to establish two additional SARCs, aiming to reduce GBV prevalence and ultimately eradicate it.

Addressing infrastructural concerns at Aba General Hospital, Governor Otti directed immediate upgrades, particularly in areas linked to the School of Nursing, instructing the Special Adviser on Health to submit a comprehensive proposal. “We cannot allow our children to study or receive care in environments that are not decent and presentable,” he said.

Speaking at the event, Minister Suleiman-Ibrahim described GBV as a widespread and underreported threat to human security, public health, and national stability. She noted that Nigeria currently has over 50 SARCs across 24 states, supporting more than 58,000 survivors. She called for an end to silence, stigma, and impunity, emphasizing the Federal Government’s commitment to policy reform, institutional strengthening, and women’s economic empowerment initiatives.

Earlier, Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection, Mrs. Ngozi Blessing Felix, described the Nchedo SARC as a landmark, survivor-centred facility offering 24-hour access to emergency medical care, forensic examination, counselling, legal guidance, and social support under one roof. She stressed that the centre complements broader justice-sector reforms, including the Sexual Offenders Register and strengthened prosecution systems, ensuring that no survivor walks alone.

Representatives of development partners also praised Abia State’s initiative. Mr. Michael Ilesanmi of the Nigeria for Women Project highlighted the success of SARCs nationwide and advocated for sustained funding, replication, and survivor shelters. Mr. Ruben Alba Aguilera of the EU Delegation noted that the EU has invested over ₦2 billion in supporting SARCs across Nigeria, emphasizing sustainability beyond donor funding.

The commissioning ceremony was attended by stakeholders, government officials, and development partners, symbolizing a united front between government, civil society, and international organizations in the fight against gender-based violence.