7 Practical Ways to Always Stay Safe as a Woman

In recent weeks, the tragic kidnapping and subsequent murder of Christiana Idowu, has reignited the conversation around the alarming rise of violent crimes in Lagos and how to stay safe, especially as a woman.

Christiana was abducted while in transit, despite desperate efforts by her family, who paid part of the ransom demanded by her abductors, Christiana was tragically killed.

This heartbreaking incident is just one of many that have sent shockwaves through the nation. As the police continue their investigation, the case raises critical questions about personal safety, especially for women.

In this time, it is crucial for women to be equipped with the tools, strategies, and knowledge to protect themselves in everyday situations. While this is not a hundred percent guaranteed, here are some ways women can safeguard themselves amid the rising threat of abductions, assaults, and violence in Nigeria.

Be aware of your surroundings

It’s easy to get lost in thoughts, smartphones, or the hustle and bustle of daily life, but being alert to your surroundings is critical. Avoid walking through isolated streets, alleys, or dimly lit areas, especially at night. Stick to well-lit and populated routes.

If you notice unusual activity or a person behaving suspiciously, trust your instincts and distance yourself from that area or person. Also, familiarize yourself with safe spots like nearby police stations, hospitals, or public spaces in case of emergencies.

Share your movements

It’s advisable to always inform a trusted friend or family member about your whereabouts, especially when traveling alone. Share your commute routes and estimated arrival times when using public transport or ride-hailing services. Utilize mobile apps that allow live location sharing with trusted contacts.

Travel smart

When using public transport, always prioritize safety over convenience. In ride-hailing apps like Uber or Bolt, verify the driver’s name, vehicle type, and plate number before getting into the car. Share this information with someone you trust.

If using public buses, sit in more visible areas and be wary of individuals behaving suspiciously.

Trust your gut

Your intuition is a powerful tool. If you feel uncomfortable or sense danger, do not hesitate to take immediate action.

Whether it means leaving an area, confronting suspicious behavior, or seeking help, trust your instincts. Women often second-guess themselves, but in matters of safety, it’s better to act on a hunch than regret later.

Be cautious of new relationships

While forming new connections is natural, be cautious about whom you trust, especially in unfamiliar settings. In dating scenarios, avoid sharing personal information too quickly, and choose public places for initial meetings.

If you feel uncomfortable with someone’s behavior, set firm boundaries and do not feel obligated to continue the relationship.

Self-defense skills

Learning basic self-defense techniques empowers women by boosting confidence and potentially saving lives. Consider enrolling in a reputable self-defense class where you can learn how to:

Defend yourself in case of an attack. Use everyday items like keys, pens, or pepper spray as defense tools. Practice verbal assertiveness to establish boundaries and deter potential threats.

Be cautious with social media

While social media is a great way to stay connected, it can also expose you to unwanted attention.

Avoid posting your exact location, daily routines, or travel plans in real time. Use privacy settings to control who can see your posts. If someone you don’t know is persistently contacting you, block and report them. Don’t engage with unknown individuals who make you feel uneasy.

Also, be extra cautious with dating apps. Vet profiles thoroughly, and never feel pressured to meet someone without establishing a level of trust.