Prevalence and determinants of gender-based violence against women in kogi state, nigeria

Abstract

Gender based violence against women (GBVAW) remains a critical public health and human rights concern in Nigeria, with significant social and reproductive health implications. This study examined the prevalence and determinants of GBVAW among women aged 15 to 49 years in Kogi State, Nigeria, using secondary data from the 2018 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS). A cross sectional analytical design was employed, and a state specific sub sample was extracted for analysis. Descriptive statistics were used to estimate prevalence, while bivariate analysis assessed associations between GBVAW and selected socio demographic, socioeconomic, reproductive, and normative factors. Multivariable binary logistic regression was conducted to identify independent predictors of GBVAW. The weighted prevalence of GBVAW in Kogi State was 6.06%. Bivariate analysis indicated significant associations between GBVAW and age, education, parity, employment status, partner characteristics, decision making autonomy, and attitudes toward wife beating. However, in the adjusted model, only age, pregnancy status, and parity remained statistically significant predictors. Women aged 30 to 34 years had significantly lower odds of experiencing GBVAW compared with adolescents aged 15 to 19 years, while pregnant women had higher odds of reporting violence. Higher parity was also associated with increased likelihood of GBVAW, with women having no or fewer children demonstrating significantly reduced odds relative to those with six or more children. Socioeconomic factors and attitudinal variables did not retain independent significance after adjustment. The findings highlight the importance of life course and reproductive factors in understanding GBVAW within Kogi State. Targeted prevention and response strategies, particularly those integrated within maternal and reproductive health services, are warranted. This study contributes state level empirical evidence to inform gender responsive policy and intervention efforts in Nigeria.