During a press conference in Enugu, Rev. Ikechukwu Nwaogu, the Executive Director of the Economic and Social Empowerment of Rural Communities, highlighted the urgent need for the Federal Government to revitalize the abandoned Borstal Training Institute in Ngwo. This institute is critical for supporting survivors of gender-based violence and rehabilitating juvenile offenders in Nigeria. Nwaogu's call for action is part of broader discussions focusing on gender-based violence during the events marking International Women’s Day in 2026.

Nwaogu emphasized the dire situation regarding the Ngwo facility, which is the only one that remains abandoned out of the four borstal homes in Nigeria, the others being located in Ilorin, Kaduna, and Abeokuta. The lack of operational facilities has created significant challenges for the state’s ability to rehabilitate rescued minors, particularly girls, who are victims of gender-based violence. This deficiency in resources and infrastructure highlights the broader systemic issues facing the Nigerian government in addressing gender-based violence and supporting vulnerable populations effectively.

The initiative underlined by the press conference reflects a community-centric approach to combating gender-based violence through survivor-centered services and engagement. By focusing on local rehabilitation efforts, stakeholders hope to not only provide immediate support but also break the cycle of violence through education and empowerment. The future operationalization of the Ngwo Borstal Institute could serve as a pivotal point for reform and rehabilitation in the state, influencing policies and enhancing protective services for at-risk youth.