The legal framework
The Child Rights Act sets 18, but it has not been adopted by every state, and the Criminal and Penal Codes differ between the south and the north. The Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act 2015 broadened the definition of rape and made it gender-neutral at federal level, with state adoption ongoing. Sexual Assault Referral Centres operate in several states and provide free medical and forensic services.
Key points
| Age of consent | 18 where the Child Rights Act applies |
|---|---|
| Definition | Set out in dedicated sexual offences legislation |
| Marital rape | Criminalised in some of these jurisdictions and not in others — check the national position |
| Medical care | Post-exposure prophylaxis for HIV must begin within 72 hours |
| Forensic evidence | Best collected within 72 hours, before washing or changing clothes if possible |
| Support | One-stop centres combine medical, police and counselling services |
| VAPP Act | Adopted federally in 2015 and domesticated by most states |
| Criminal and Penal Codes | Still apply where the VAPP Act has not been adopted |
| Sexual Offenders Register | Maintained nationally |
In practice
- Report to the police at any station; you do not have to decide immediately whether to pursue a prosecution.
- A forensic medical examination can usually be carried out and stored before any decision to report.
- Specialist support services can attend with you and explain each step.
- Ask for written confirmation of any examination and of the report reference.
- Check whether your state has domesticated the VAPP Act: it determines which definitions apply.
- Sexual assault referral centres exist in several states and provide free care.
Recent changes
The regional trend is towards one-stop centres, which have measurably improved both survivor experience and evidence quality compared with separate police and hospital processes.
Where to go
- One-stop centres and gender-based violence recovery units in public hospitals.
- Police units specialising in sexual and gender-based violence.
- National helplines and women's rights organisations providing legal accompaniment.
Worth knowing
Go to a hospital first, ideally within 72 hours: that window covers both HIV prophylaxis and forensic evidence. Reporting to the police can follow afterwards. Because the VAPP Act applies only where a state has adopted it, the offence definitions differ across the country. Establish the position in your state first.
Official sources and links
- Nigeria.gov.ng — official government portal