Jamilu Abubakar
The Gombe State Government, in partnership with UNICEF, has inaugurated a Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) at the Gombe State Specialist Hospital to provide survivors of sexual violence with comprehensive medical, psychosocial, and legal support.
Representing the Deputy Governor at the event, the State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Habu Dahiru, highlighted the government’s concern over rising cases of sexual assault, particularly among children.
He explained that the SARC is a one-stop facility offering medical treatment, psychological counselling, rehabilitation, and legal referral services.
The centre is located in a secluded part of the hospital to ensure privacy, protect survivors from stigma, and preserve their dignity.
The Chief Medical Director, Dr. Sambo Dawa, revealed that the hospital recorded 645 cases of sexual assault between 2021 and 2025, with children aged 10 to 14 being the most affected, especially in rural areas.
He expressed optimism that the new centre would improve access to care and reduce delays in response to reported cases.
From a legislative perspective, Musa Zambuk, a member of the House Committee on Health, noted that the enactment of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act and Child Protection Laws demonstrates the state’s commitment to tackling sexual violence. He urged full implementation of these laws to ensure offenders are prosecuted.
UNICEF Bauchi Chief, Dr. Nuzrat Rafique, described the SARC as a critical intervention, emphasizing that prevention remains the ultimate goal. She called on families, communities, and institutions to strengthen collaboration to protect children and end sexual abuse.
Traditional leaders also pledged support. Alhaji Dalhatu Babayo Sambo, Wakilin Birnin Gombe, speaking on behalf of the Emir of Gombe, condemned all forms of violence and reaffirmed the Emirate’s commitment to safeguarding children and vulnerable persons.
The SARC is equipped with a sickbay, counselling unit, pharmacy, laboratory, and security desk, and stakeholders emphasized the need for sustained funding, public awareness, and inter-agency cooperation to curb sexual assault across the state.