Gender-Based Violence Responses in Urban Lagos Public Hospitals: An Analytical Framework

Gender-based violence (GBV) is a pervasive issue in Nigeria, with urban areas like Lagos experiencing high rates of GBV incidents. The analysis employs a mixed-methods approach including qualitative interviews with healthcare professionals, quantitative surveys among patients, and secondary data review of hospital records. Analysis revealed that only 34% of reported GBV cases were successfully referred to appropriate services within the hospitals studied. Public health facilities in urban Lagos are inadequately equipped to handle GBV cases effectively, leading to significant gaps in service delivery and patient safety. The government should mandate training for healthcare providers on recognising and responding to GBV incidents, and establish dedicated units within public hospitals to address these issues.