The Rivers State Response Team on Violence Against Women and Children has commended the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN) for donating drugs and medical supplies to support the free treatment of survivors of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) across the state.
Reacting to it on February 26, 2026, the team described the donation as substantial in both value and quantity, noting that it would strengthen ongoing efforts to combat rape and other forms of sexual violence in Rivers State.
The Coordinator of the Response Team, Tombari Dumka-Kote, made the commendation after leading members of the team to witness the distribution of medical items worth millions of naira to the Rape Clinic at the Modern Primary Health Centre, Orogbum, and 23 other health facilities across the state.
Dumka-Kote said the fight against sexual and gender-based violence requires collective responsibility, urging corporate organisations and well-meaning individuals to emulate IHVN’s gesture. He noted that while the state government continues to support health facilities in providing free medical care to survivors, additional support from donor agencies would ease the burden on responders who render voluntary services.
Also speaking, Dr. Nwabueze Blessing, Head of Facility at the Modern Primary Health Centre, Orogbum, appreciated IHVN for its continued support, stating that the donation would greatly assist survivors, many of whom are unable to afford treatment. She added that the supplies, including rape kits and essential medications, would enhance the facility’s response capacity.
IHVN representative Mary Nzeli said the institute’s primary mandate is HIV prevention but has expanded its support to include the prevention and management of sexual violence cases. She encouraged members of the public to refer survivors to designated facilities, assuring that treatment and medications are provided free of charge.
Beneficiary facilities include the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital, Rivers State University Teaching Hospital, and several general and primary health centres across the state.
