Bridging the Knowledge Gap: VAC, GBV, and Reporting Pathways – Insights from Lekeelekee Written By Kebe Ikpi

A recent poll on Lekeelekee, Africa’s homegrown social media platform, highlights a critical shortfall in public awareness of Violence Against Children (VAC) and Gender-Based Violence (GBV). Asked “Do you know where to report if you become aware of or experience VAC or GBV?”, 50% answered “Yes,” 40% said “No,” and 10% chose “Tell me more about VAC and GBV.” Half the respondents either lack knowledge of reporting channels or want basic education on the issues themselves.

This gap has serious consequences. Unreported cases allow abuse to continue, leave survivors isolated, and hinder prevention and justice. In a digital space connecting millions across Africa and the diaspora, the finding is both a warning and an opportunity.

What VAC and GBV Mean

VAC includes physical, sexual, and emotional abuse, neglect, and exploitation of anyone under 18, corporal punishment, child marriage, trafficking, and online harm. GBV covers harmful acts based on gender, primarily affecting women and girls but also men and boys. It ranges from intimate partner violence and sexual assault to harmful traditional practices and technology-facilitated abuse. The two often intersect: children in homes with GBV face higher VAC risks, and childhood violence can shape later experiences of GBV.

Stigma, fear of retaliation, economic dependence, and distrust of institutions keep many silent. Studies across sub-Saharan Africa show low formal help-seeking among child survivors, even when some awareness of services exists.

Why Knowledge of Reporting Pathways Matters.

When 40% do not know where to turn, witnesses and survivors stay passive. Under-reporting is already widespread. Survivors often fear disbelief, secondary harm by authorities, or social ostracism. Fragmented systems like police, health facilities, social welfare, and courts operating in silos add further barriers. Early reporting can secure urgent medical care (especially within 72 hours of sexual violence), psychosocial support, safe shelter, and legal protection. It also generates data that guides policy and resources.

Practical Reporting Pathways

In Nigeria, multiple entry points exist. In immediate danger, call 112 or local police. Specialised Gender Desks and Family Support Units handle cases with greater sensitivity. Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs) offer medical, forensic, and counselling services. Other options include the National Human Rights Commission (with situation rooms and toll-free lines), the Ministry of Women Affairs, NAPTIP for trafficking-related cases, and state social welfare or women development ministries.

Civil society groups and community organisations often serve as trusted first contacts for confidential referrals. National helplines and platforms such as ReportGBV.ng and Child Protection Information Management System Plus (CPIMS+) enable remote reporting. Teachers, health workers, and community leaders are expected to report suspected child abuse to protection officers.

The approach should remain survivor-centred. Confidentiality, safety planning, and non-judgmental support are essential. Effective pathways link health, psychosocial, security, and justice actors so one report can trigger coordinated help.

Closing the Gap

The Lekeelekee survey itself shows the value of open digital conversation. Platforms designed for African realities with low-data features and community focus can spread accurate information, reduce stigma, and connect users to verified resources. Campaigns should explain definitions, challenge harmful norms, and map concrete steps: whom to contact, what evidence helps, and survivors’ rights under laws such as the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act/Law, Child Rights Act/Law and other relevant Laws.

Knowledge alone is not enough. Services must be accessible and trustworthy. Governments need stronger coordination and trained frontline workers; civil society and media must sustain outreach; individuals must treat reporting as protection rather than interference.

When half a community remains uncertain about reporting VAC and GBV, silence becomes systemic. Closing this knowledge gap is essential for safer homes, schools, and societies. Awareness is the first step; informed action creates lasting change.