Students from the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), and the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) are stepping up to challenge sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) on their campuses through a bold new initiative known as Project Safe Zones.
The campaign, launched after a series of intensive training sessions held from March 24 to 28, 2025, is part of a larger effort supported by Girl Up, a global non-profit, and led by VARSH Foundation, a gender rights group. The training was facilitated by VARSH Founder, Aworanti Salvation, who is also a recipient of the Girl Up Project Award.
A total of 67 students participated in the training across both universities, gaining the knowledge and advocacy tools needed to drive change in their campus communities.
“This project is about more than just awareness, it’s about creating tangible change on the campuses.
By training student advocates who can recognise warning signs and support their peers, we’re building a sustainable network that will continue promoting safety and respect even after the campaigns end,” said Salvation in a statement on Monday.
Right after the sessions, participants took their knowledge to the streets—rolling out campaigns to raise awareness about SGBV and foster safer, more respectful campus environments.
Their efforts were welcomed and supported by student union leaders. At UNILORIN, the Assistant General Secretary, Ganiyu Bukola, showed support, while the Vice President of the FUNAAB Students’ Union, Alakoso Mariam, also backed the movement.
The campaign is focused on educating students to recognise the signs of SGBV and take proactive steps to prevent it. It’s a step toward not just responding to incidents, but preventing them entirely through sustained awareness and community action.
Project Safe Zones marks a powerful move toward protecting students and fostering respect and safety across Nigerian campuses.
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