Gender-Based Violence Support Centers Amongst Female Seniors in Lagos, Nigeria: An Impact Evaluation Study

Gender-based violence (GBV) is a pervasive issue affecting women globally, with particular vulnerability among female seniors in urban settings like Lagos, Nigeria. GBV support centers play a critical role in providing assistance and protection to victims of domestic abuse. However, the effectiveness of these services remains under-researched, especially for this demographic. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including quantitative surveys targeting female seniors (N=300) and qualitative interviews with centre staff and beneficiaries. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis to identify key themes related to service provision and user experiences. Initial findings suggest that while approximately 45% of surveyed female seniors reported having used GBV support services, there was a notable disparity in utilization rates between centers located in different neighborhoods within Lagos. Staff expressed challenges with maintaining adequate funding and resources for comprehensive care. The study underscores the importance of tailored interventions to address specific needs of female seniors affected by GBV in urban settings, particularly focusing on service accessibility and resource allocation disparities. Policy recommendations include enhancing community outreach efforts to increase awareness about available support services and advocating for more equitable funding distribution among centers across Lagos.