NGO Opens Office in Abuja to Cater for Victims of Domestic Violence, Sexual Abuse

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

A non-governmental organisation (NGO), The Safe Haven Foundation (SHF), has opened an office in Abuja, the federal capital territory to cater for survivors of domestic violence and sexual abuse.

SHF was established by the immediate past Director-General of National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Professor Fatima Waziri-Azi, to provide holistic support to individuals who have experienced violence.

Founded in 2016, SHF is a non-profit organisation dedicated to preventing domestic violence through strategic legal interventions, research driven advocacy and support to survivors and offenders.

With the latest opening of its shelter, the foundation marks a significant step forward in its mission to create a society where everyone can live free from fear and harm.

According to Waziri-Azi, by offering comprehensive support services, the foundation seeks to empower survivors, foster awareness, and advocate for systemic change to end the cycle of abuse in Nigeria.

She noted that the services offered at Safe Haven Foundation include: “Advocacy: Raising awareness across communities with a focus on fostering behavioral change; Free Legal Representation and Referral Services: Assisting survivors with obtaining protection orders, securing compensation, and handling custody or divorce proceedings.

“Research and Publication: Conducting in-depth research on domestic and sexual violence and related issues to inform policy and practice; Sheltering and Counseling: Providing emergency shelter and creating a safe space for survivors to express their emotions, thoughts, and fears.”

Waziri-Azi, the Founder of the Safe Haven Foundation, emphasised the importance of the initiative, stating that Safe Haven Foundation was born out of a vision to provide hope and healing to survivors, to amplify their voices, and to ensure that no one feels alone in their journey toward safety and justice.”

She noted that: “Through collaborative efforts with government agencies, NGOs,CSOs, and community leaders, the foundation seeks to foster a culture of transparency, accountability, empathy, and action.”

Safe Haven Foundation which officially opened its doors in January 2025, invites all Nigerians to be a part of the movement of fostering a society where safety is a right, not a privilege.