Emergency Resources

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, please use the following contacts. In a non-emergency, you can report a case to GFDI here.

Are you in immediate danger?

Contact the Nigerian Police Force emergency lines or use one of the specialized agency hotlines below. Do not wait for an online report to be processed if physical safety is currently at risk.

Important Hotlines

  • National Emergency Number
    112
    General emergency (Police, Fire, Ambulance). Toll-free across Nigeria.
  • NAPTIP — National Toll-Free (Trafficking & VAPP)
    0800 CALL NAPTIP  ·  Short code: 627
    National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons. Covers trafficking, exploitation, and VAPP Act violations nationwide. Available 24/7.
  • Federal Govt — Violence Against Women & Girls (Toll-Free)
    0800 72 73 2255
    Federal government dedicated GBV helpline. Toll-free, available nationwide.

Find Your State Hotline

Type or select your state to see the dedicated response line.

Select Your State

Educational Information

About Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)

FGM involves the partial or total removal of external female genitalia or other injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons. It is a severe violation of the human rights of girls and women, with no health benefits. It can cause severe bleeding, problems urinating, cysts, infections, and complications in childbirth. FGM is illegal under Nigerian law and the VAPP Act. If you know of a girl at risk, report it immediately.

Recognizing Human Trafficking

Trafficking often starts with an offer that seems to be a genuine opportunity for education or work. Key warning signs include: living with an employer in poor conditions, inability to speak to others alone, lack of access to personal identification documents, signs of physical or psychological abuse, and being moved frequently between locations. Do not attempt a direct rescue — contact NAPTIP (0800 CALL NAPTIP) or call 627 immediately.

Signs of Child Labour

Child labour deprives children of their childhood, potential, and dignity. Warning signs include: a child who is absent from school regularly or has dropped out entirely; a child who appears malnourished, exhausted, or injured from physical work; a child working in hazardous environments such as construction sites, quarries, or as a domestic worker with no freedom. Under Nigerian law (Child Rights Act, 2003), employing children under 12 in any work is prohibited, and hazardous work is prohibited for those under 18. Report cases to NAPTIP or your local social welfare office.

Your Rights Under the VAPP Act

The Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act, 2015 (VAPP Act) is a landmark Nigerian law that criminalises domestic violence, sexual violence, female genital mutilation, forced marriage, and harmful traditional practices. Key rights it protects:

  • The right to report any form of violence without fear of being turned away by authorities.
  • Protection orders can be obtained from a court — your abuser can be legally barred from contacting you.
  • Survivors are entitled to free medical treatment at public hospitals for injuries resulting from violence.
  • Anonymous reporting is recognised — you do not need to give your name to access initial support.
  • Courts can order the abuser to pay compensation for harm caused.

Note: The VAPP Act is fully in force in FCT (Abuja). Many states have adopted their own versions — contact GFDI or NAPTIP if you need guidance for your specific state.

What Happens After You Report to GFDI

When you submit a report through our website or contact a GFDI representative, here is what happens:

  1. Review — Your report is read privately by a designated member of GFDI's advocacy team within 48 hours.
  2. Risk Assessment — If the situation appears to be ongoing or urgent, the team will escalate it immediately to the appropriate authorities (police, NAPTIP, or social welfare).
  3. Follow-up — If you provided contact details, a team member will reach out to you privately to discuss next steps or connect you with local support resources.
  4. Referral — GFDI can connect you with NGO partners, legal aid, safe shelters, or counselling services where available in your state.
  5. Confidentiality — Your information is never shared publicly or with third parties without your explicit consent. Anonymous reports are equally valid and will be acted upon.

Safety Planning for Domestic Violence Survivors

If you are in a dangerous home situation, a safety plan can save your life. Consider the following steps:

  • Identify a trusted person (friend, neighbour, or relative) you can contact in an emergency.
  • Keep important documents (NIN, birth certificates, financial records) in a safe, accessible location or with a trusted person.
  • Have a small emergency bag ready with essentials (medication, phone charger, money, change of clothes).
  • Know your local shelter or police station address in advance.
  • Save emergency numbers (112, your state DV hotline, GFDI) in your phone under a discreet contact name.
  • If you must use a shared device to browse, use a private/incognito browser window and clear your history after.