Women’s Safety in Nigeria: Best Practices and Tech Solutions

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A young woman using a personal safety app in Nigeria while navigating a busy city street, ensuring real-time location sharing and emergency preparedness.

Safety concerns for women in Nigeria remain a significant issue, with rising incidents of harassment, assault, and other security threats. Whether commuting, working late, or traveling alone, Nigerian women often face unique risks that require proactive safety measures.

Thankfully, technology has made it easier to stay protected. The rise of personal safety apps in Nigeria has provided women with digital tools to call for help in emergencies. In this article, we explore best practices for women’s safety and the top tech solutions that can help enhance security.

Understanding the Risks Women Face

According to a 2022 report by SBM Intelligence, at least 30% of Nigerian women have experienced some form of public harassment or assault. These risks include:

  • Street harassment – Unwanted advances, catcalling, or verbal abuse.
  • Kidnapping and abduction – Rising cases of women being taken for ransom or human trafficking.
  • Sexual assault – Attacks in public spaces, workplaces, or even ride-hailing services.
  • Domestic violence – Often underreported but a significant issue in Nigeria.

These realities highlight the need for proactive safety measures and effective emergency response tools.

Best Practices for Women’s Safety in Nigeria

Women can take steps to reduce risks and enhance personal security. Here are some key safety tips:

1. Be Aware of Your Surroundings

  • Avoid walking alone in poorly lit or isolated areas.
  • Stay alert in crowded places, as pickpockets and harassers often target busy areas.
  • Trust your instincts—if something feels unsafe, remove yourself from the situation.

2. Use a Personal Safety App

Having a panic button for emergencies can be lifesaving. Apps like ShepherdView, which offer real-time location sharing and emergency alerts, allow users to call for help instantly.

3. Have Emergency Contacts on Speed Dial

  • Store trusted contacts and security agencies’ numbers.
  • Enable quick dial options on your phone for emergencies.
  • Use the ‘Get Help for Others’ feature on ShepherdView to reach out on someone’s behalf if they’re in distress.

4. Secure Your Transportation

  • Use only verified ride-hailing services.
  • Share your trip details with friends or family.
  • Avoid entering taxis without proper identification or security measures.

5. Invest in Self-Defense Tools

  • Carry pepper spray or a personal alarm.
  • Learn basic self-defense techniques.
  • Wear shoes you can run in when moving around at night.

Top Tech Solutions for Women’s Safety

Technology offers effective solutions for women’s safety in Nigeria. Some of the best safety apps in Africa include:

1. ShepherdView

  • Features: Panic button, real-time location sharing, emergency alerts, and Get Help for Others.
  • Why Choose It? Designed specifically for emergencies in Nigeria and Africa, it connects users with responders quickly.
  • Pricing: Free plan available; Premium at $10/year.

2. bSafe

  • Features: SOS alert with audio/video recording, fake call feature.
  • Why Choose It? Helps document incidents while alerting emergency contacts.
  • Pricing: Free basic plan; Premium starts at $35.88/year.

3. Life360

  • Features: Family tracking, emergency contact notifications.
  • Why Choose It? Great for families monitoring loved ones’ movements.
  • Pricing: Free basic plan; Premium starts at $59.88/year.

How to Stay Safe in Public: A Quick Checklist

✅ Avoid displaying valuables like phones and jewelry in public.
✅ Have a plan for getting home safely, especially at night.
✅ Inform someone about your whereabouts and expected arrival time.
✅ Use emergency alert apps for real-time location tracking.
✅ Trust your instincts—leave immediately if you feel unsafe.

You should check these too:

Conclusion: Take Control of Your Safety

Women’s safety in Nigeria requires a proactive approach. By following key safety practices and leveraging security alert systems in Africa, women can enhance their protection and respond swiftly in emergencies.

✅ Download ShepherdView now and take control of your safety today.

Stay prepared. Be safe, Home & Away with ShepherdView.

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