Technology has become an integral part of our lives, but with every advancement comes a darker side. In Nigeria, Technology-Facilitated Gender-Based Violence (TFGBV) is a growing crisis, and the numbers tell a chilling story. A 2020 report by the Web Foundation found that 38% of women in Nigeria experience online abuse. This isn’t just about hurtful comments; it’s about the long-term psychological, social, and economic dangers that TFGBV inflicts on victims.

Let’s unpack what this means, not just for the individuals affected but for our society at large.
What is TFGBV?
TFGBV refers to harm perpetrated using digital tools and platforms, and in Nigeria, it manifests in ways that feel disturbingly familiar. It could be as overt as cyberstalking, sextortion, or the non-consensual sharing of intimate images, or as subtle as the steady drumbeat of online harassment that wears down women’s confidence and safety.
One particularly horrifying trend is “doxxing,” where a victim’s personal information—address, workplace, phone number—is posted online to encourage harassment. Revenge pornography is another prevalent form of TFGBV, often used as a tool of blackmail or social humiliation. These acts are disproportionately targeted at women and girls, reflecting the broader gender inequalities in our society.
The Dangers of TFGBV
- Psychological Harm
The emotional toll of TFGBV cannot be overstated. Victims frequently report experiencing anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Imagine waking up each day unsure if you’ll be the subject of another attack—or worse, if your private information has gone viral. The constant fear and shame can be paralyzing, leaving victims feeling powerless. - Social Stigma and Isolation
In Nigeria, where cultural norms often blame victims rather than perpetrators, TFGBV carries an additional layer of harm. Women who experience online abuse are frequently shamed or dismissed, told to “log off” or “be more careful” instead of receiving support. This stigma not only silences victims but pushes them further into isolation, cutting them off from their social networks and even professional opportunities. - Economic Consequences
TFGBV doesn’t just affect emotions—it affects livelihoods. Women have reported quitting their jobs, leaving online platforms, or shutting down businesses because of unrelenting harassment. This economic fallout is particularly troubling in Nigeria, where the digital economy is one of the fastest-growing sectors. When women are driven out of these spaces, their absence impacts economic growth and innovation. - Legal and Institutional Failures
One of the biggest dangers of TFGBV is the lack of robust legal protections for victims in Nigeria. While there are laws like the Cybercrimes Act of 2015, enforcement is weak, and many victims struggle to navigate the legal system. Additionally, platforms like Facebook and Twitter often fail to take swift action against abusers, leaving victims with little recourse.
The Broader Impact on Society
The dangers of TFGBV extend far beyond individual victims. When women are harassed, silenced, and pushed out of digital spaces, it deepens the already pervasive gender gap in Nigeria. Women are less likely to participate in public debates, share their opinions, or take up leadership roles. This “chilling effect” stifles progress and reinforces the structures that keep women marginalized.
If half the population is unable to fully engage in the digital age, how can we move forward as a nation?
What Needs to Change
Addressing TFGBV isn’t just about protecting women; it’s about safeguarding our collective future. Here are a few critical steps we need to take:
- Stronger Legislation and Enforcement: Existing laws need to be updated and enforced more rigorously. For instance, harsher penalties for offenders and faster legal processes could deter potential abusers.
- Awareness and Education: Many people don’t even realize their actions constitute TFGBV. Public campaigns and school curricula should educate citizens on responsible online behavior and the consequences of abuse.
- Support Systems for Victims: Victims of TFGBV need safe spaces to report abuse and access counseling and legal aid. NGOs like Stand to End Rape (STER) are already doing important work in this space, but they need more support from the government and private sector.
- Holding Tech Platforms Accountable: Social media platforms must do more to protect users, including implementing better reporting systems and moderating harmful content more effectively.
TFGBV in Nigeria isn’t just an “online” problem—it’s a reflection of deep-rooted gender inequalities that have found a new battleground in the digital space. The dangers are real and far-reaching, but they’re not insurmountable. By combining education, policy reform, and societal change, we can begin to create a safer digital environment for everyone.
If Nigeria is to thrive in the digital age, it must be a place where all voices—especially those of women and girls—can be heard without fear. The question is, are we ready to make that change?