DSVA storms Ikeja with SGBV sensitization campaign

In a bid to curb sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) in Lagos State, the Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA), on Thursday, embarked on a door-to-door sensitization campaign across communities in Ikeja Local Government Area.

The campaign, led by the DSVA’s Community Engagement team, was designed to raise awareness on SGBV, promote a culture of zero tolerance, and educate residents on the importance of timely reporting and available support systems.

With active participation from the Onilekere Community Development Association (CDA), the team visited strategic locations including residential streets, religious centers, schools, hospitals, mechanic workshops, markets, and vocational institutes. Key areas covered included:

• Otunba Oludare Lane, Babaponmile Street, Onigbongbo Road, Sunday Farm Estate, among others

• LASUTH LASUCOM Mosque, Nasirudeen Central Mosque, Living Faith Church Onilekere, and Celestial Church of Christ Onipetesi Cathedral

• Lagos State Teaching Hospital, The Eko Hospital, and Chief Nelson Vocational Institute

• Onilekere Junior High School, Kenvic Private School, and markets like Ifesowapo, Kokoro, and Agunbiade

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Information, Education and Communication (IEC) materials were distributed, while community leaders received briefings on SGBV dynamics and effective reporting mechanisms. They, in turn, pledged to cascade the information to residents, ensuring broader community engagement.

Residents were encouraged to use DSVA’s toll-free line (08000-333-333) for confidential and immediate reporting of incidents. According to DSVA, over 14,000 individuals were directly reached during the campaign.

The Family Support Unit (FSU) Officer at Area F Police Station commended DSVA’s grassroots approach, assuring continued police collaboration in addressing SGBV. Tricycle riders in Agunbiade Market also praised the initiative, noting that they now feel more equipped to report child abuse, sexual assault, and domestic violence cases.

Despite the progress, some CDA representatives emphasized the need for sustained education and dialogue to foster long-term cultural change in addressing social issues.

The DSVA reiterated its commitment to strengthening community partnerships, saying that community-led responsibility remains a critical tool in building safe and inclusive neighborhoods across Lagos State.