Assessment of Sexual Harassment in Nigerian Workplaces: A Case Study of Financial Institutions in Lagos

Sexual harassment in Nigerian workplaces remains a significant but underreported form of gender-based discrimination that undermines women's professional advancement and organisational wellbeing. This study assesses the prevalence, forms, and reporting patterns of sexual harassment in financial sector workplaces in Lagos, focusing on commercial banks and insurance companies. A quantitative survey design was employed, with 260 female employees across 12 financial institutions completing anonymous structured questionnaires. Data were analysed using frequency tables, mean scores, and binary logistic regression. Findings reveal that 54% of respondents have experienced at least one form of sexual harassment including unwanted physical contact, verbal propositions, and coercive quid pro quo demands. Only 18% of those who experienced harassment formally reported the incident, citing fear of retaliation, disbelief by management, and inadequate reporting mechanisms as barriers. The study finds that organisations with formal gender policies and designated human resources complaints channels record lower incidences of unreported harassment. Female employees in supervisory roles report harassment from both superiors and subordinates. Recommendations include enactment and enforcement of a comprehensive workplace sexual harassment law in Nigeria, mandatory anti-harassment training for all employees, and the establishment of independent reporting channels. This study contributes to workplace gender justice literature in the South West. Keywords: sexual harassment, workplace, financial institutions, Lagos, gender policy