GBV Coalition Raises Alarm Over IDP Girls Allegedly Used As Collateral For Loans

Stakeholders working to combat gender-based violence have raised concerns over the exploitation of internally displaced girls, following a disclosure that some were allegedly used as collateral for loans.

A statement by the Gender And Development Action (GADA) said that the disclosure has drawn attention to the vulnerabilities facing women and girls in displacement settings, thereby highlighting serious gaps in survivor protection.

GADA in the statement said, that Dr Uduak Akpan of Youth Alive Foundation disclosed the disturbing account during the formation of the Intersectional Gender-Based Violence Prevention Coalition in Abuja.

It said the coalition formation event, organised by Gender and Development Action (GADA) in partnership with the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), held on October 26, 2026.

The gathering also featured research findings from nine states and the Federal Capital Territory, examining gaps in preventing and responding to gender-based violence.

According to GADA, the findings highlighted weaknesses in survivor protection, including inadequate shelters, limited access to legal assistance and ineffective referral mechanisms.

Furthermore, the stakeholders reportedly stressed the need for a stronger National GBV Prevention and Accountability Framework that addresses harmful gender norms, strengthens survivor-centred justice and ensures marginalised groups participate in decision-making.

The proposed framework, according to GADA, also emphasises community-driven prevention, evidence-based policymaking and improved institutional accountability.

The coalition is expected to pursue a four-year roadmap covering validation, implementation, adaptation and institutionalisation of the framework.