Prevalence and Pattern of Sexual Abuse Among Adolescents in Senior Secondary Schools in Gwagwalada Federal Capital Territory, Nigeria

Background: Child sexual abuse (CSA) is a major public health concern with serious physical, emotional, and social consequences. This study assessed the prevalence and pattern of CSA among senior secondary school students in Gwagwalada, Abuja. Methods: A mixed-method descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from January to March 2025 among 270 adolescents selected through multistage sampling. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and in-depth interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed at a significance level of p ≤ 0.05, and thematic analysis was applied to qualitative responses. Results: The prevalence of CSA was 38.9% (105 students). The most commonly reported abusive act was being forced to expose their naked body. Perpetrators were mainly known to victims, including family members and neighbors, with most incidents occurring between ages 2–14, either at home or in public spaces. Significant associations were observed between CSA and age group, class level, living arrangement, parental education, parental occupation, and stigma. Key determinants identified were living arrangement, father’s occupation, and perceived stigma. Qualitative findings highlighted abuse occurring in trusted environments, involving coercion and threats, with non-disclosure driven by fear, shame, and blame. Conclusion: CSA is highly prevalent in Gwagwalada and linked to family and social vulnerabilities, requiring strengthened preventive and supportive interventions.