April is recognised globally as Sexual Assault Awareness Month, a period set aside to spotlight a crime that remains widely underreported despite its prevalence.

Data from the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency shows thousands of reported cases over the years, yet many more incidents go unrecorded due to stigma, fear, and lack of trust in the system. Across communities, survivors choose silence over a process they believe may expose them to blame, stigma, delay, or disbelief.

While awareness campaigns continue, a critical question remains: what should be done in the moment sexual assault occurs, or when someone is at risk?

What to do if it happens to you

The first priority is safety. Leaving the environment where the incident occurred.
Seeking medical attention is very important. Health professionals can provide treatment, prevent infections, and document evidence that may be needed later. Many facilities offer free medical care, counselling, and forensic support to survivors.

Reaching out to a trusted person. It might be a friend, family member, or counsellor can also make a difference. Many survivors delay seeking help because they feel isolated or fear judgement, but early support shapes the outcome of recovery and access to justice.

Reporting the incident is an option, though not always straightforward. Survivors can approach agencies like the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency, which provides guidance, legal support, and referrals.

If you witness sexual assault

Intervening directly is not advised, especially where there is a threat of violence. In such situations, prioritising personal safety is important.

Witnesses can help by alerting authorities, drawing attention to the situation, or seeking assistance from others nearby. Even when immediate intervention is not possible, reporting the incident afterwards can help prevent further harm.

If someone confides in you

How people respond in these moments determines whether a survivor seeks further help or retreats into silence.

Listening without blame or judgement is key. Avoid questioning their actions or suggesting what they should have done differently. Instead, focus on support and help them explore available options, including professional services.

Organisations such as WARIF provide counselling, medical care, and advocacy, helping survivors navigate both emotional and legal processes.

Where to get help in Nigeria

Support services exist, but access varies widely across the country.

In Lagos, the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency coordinates response efforts, connects survivors to care, and works with law enforcement. Centres like the Mirabel Centre remain among the most established facilities offering comprehensive support.

Beyond Lagos, however, such structured systems are less visible or harder to access. While some states have gender desks or partner organisations, survivors often face longer delays and fewer resources, reinforcing the gap between policy and reality.

What the law says

Nigeria’s Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act criminalises various forms of sexual violence and provides a legal framework for prosecution and victim protection. The law recognises that sexual assault can affect anyone, regardless of gender, and outlines penalties for offenders.

Beyond awareness

Sexual assault is often discussed as a women’s issue, but men and boys are also affected, frequently facing even greater stigma when they come forward. Expanding the conversation to include all survivors is essential to building a more responsive support system.

As April’s awareness campaigns continue, the gap between knowledge and action remains essential. Knowing what to do and where to go can make a huge difference, but the broader challenge lies in ensuring that systems meant to support survivors are accessible, responsive, and trusted.